Roanoke, Virginia – In response to the chilling temperatures reaching the low 20s, Kingdom Harvest Church, Southern Team Subaru of Roanoke, and Total Action for Progress (TAP) have come together in an inspiring initiative. Through their collaboration with Operation Warm, they are ensuring that children in need are equipped with brand-new coats to brave the extreme cold.
Community Effort for Keeping Kids Warm
Over 450 coats were made available at Kingdom Harvest Church on a chilly Saturday, marking a significant step towards warming the community’s children. TAP coordinator and Assistant Pastor at Kingdom Harvest, Jason Hariston, expressed the urgency of the need, acknowledging the biting cold and the importance of more than just a jacket during such times. “You can feel the weather outside is definitely cold… it’s definitely needed,” he said.
The joy and relief these coats bring to families were evident. Shavon Turner, a shopper at the event, shared her excitement, “I get to match with my god sister and my sister. I really liked this jacket because I love the color purple.” This sentiment was echoed by others, with many appreciating the variety and the quality of the coats provided.
Hariston emphasized the crucial role of these coats in the daily lives of school-going children. He noted that kids waiting for buses in the early cold mornings need to be adequately protected against the chill. “You’re not going to do good at school if you’re not warm,” he explained, highlighting the connection between physical comfort and educational performance.
This initiative also addresses a common challenge: the rapid rate at which children outgrow their clothes, often every six months. Many families struggle to keep up with this pace, especially for essential items like warm coats. This gap can lead to missed school days or hindered participation in school activities.
Continued Efforts and How to Get Involved
For those who missed the Saturday event, Hariston reassured that efforts to distribute coats would continue. “We’re still going to make sure everyone does get a coat that needs a coat,” he assured, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to the cause.
Kingdom Harvest Church extends an invitation to anyone in need of a coat to reach out. They can be contacted at (540) 362-5421 for more information and assistance. Additionally, for those looking to learn more about or support Operation Warm, click here.
