NORWALK—On Saturday, November 4, more than 750 brand new coats, winter hats, and gloves were distributed to clients of Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) by the greater Norwalk area Knights of Columbus Councils as part of the Order’s Coats for Kids Initiative. Since the initiative launched in 2009, more than 1 million coats have been distributed in 49 states and all 10 Canadian provinces to keep kids warm through the winter. This is the first of many sites in which Knights councils around the state will distribute coats to those in need in various towns and cities in Connecticut including Bridgeport, Stamford, Greenwich, New Haven, Hartford, and Waterbury.
Knights of Columbus Councils from Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Wilton, and Bishop Fenwick Assembly 4th Degree Assembly 100 worked together to purchase the brand-new coats through various fundraisers throughout the year.
“Inflation has created an even bigger need in our community, so we do what Knights do by assisting our brothers and sisters when times are rough,” said Project Chairman George Ribellino. “My biggest joy is seeing the smiles of the kids faces as they try on a brand new coat.”
In addition to the brand-new coats, St. Matthew Parishioners Karen Delvecchio and Terri Sargent donated handmade winters hats and scarves for the fifth straight year.
“I am so grateful to once again have the Knights of Columbus providing brand new coats to our clients in need. As prices rise and children grow, winter clothing can be a financial burden for families, so this partnership with the Knights has been truly impactful in the community,” said Robert F. Cashel, President & CEO of FCA.
Local participating councils-
Msgr. Thomas J Finn Council #46-Norwalk
Father John Stapleton Council #2287-New Canaan
Church of the Assumption Council #3688-Westoport
Rev James J McGuane Council # 4460-Darien
Our Lady of Fatima Council #12698-Wilton
St Matthew Council #14360-Norwalk
Bishop Fenwick Assembly 100 4th Degree
