In observance of the national Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Jan. 18, the United Way’s Volunteer Columbus is asking for donations of new and gently-used coats for children and adults this week. There is still plenty of winter weather ahead, and the initiative will help residents in Lowndes and Noxubee Counties who remain in need of warm outerwear. Coats will be distributed on Jan. 16 and 18.
In Lowndes County, drop off coats at the United Way office at 223 22nd St. N. in Columbus Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., or at the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library at 314 Seventh St. N. Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., said Volunteer Columbus Director Renee Sanders.
In Noxubee County, donors may drop coats off at the Noxubee County Library, 145 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. in Macon, weekdays (except Wednesday) between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
United Way’s Volunteer Center has expanded to now serve Lowndes, Noxubee and Monroe Counties, Sanders explained.
“I’m so excited to reach out to Noxubee residents with this drive and let them know the Volunteer Center is now available for them, too,” she said.
Coat distribution
In Columbus, coats will be distributed at the United Way office on Saturday, Jan. 16 and Monday, Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sanders said. In Noxubee County, coat distribution will be Monday, Jan. 18 only at the Noxubee County Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Available coats will be offered to individuals present.
“There is nothing to sign or fill out, just show up,” said Sanders.
This week’s coat drive isn’t the only way Volunteer Columbus will observe the annual MLK Day of Service. Several hands-on projects are being coordinated at local United Way agencies. Individuals, church groups, civic clubs, sororities, fraternities and businesses are encouraged to contact Sanders this week if interested in contributing time and even elbow grease. Volunteers are also needed to assist with sorting and distributing coats.
“If anyone wants to get involved, contact me, and I’ll set them up,” Sanders said.
For more information, or to volunteer, call 662-328-0943.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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