Pastor Brian Sharp with Grace Christian Fellowship estimated this year they would distribute around 250 to 300 coats to those in need during the recent Warm Coats from Warm Hearts winter clothing drive.
“We give away about 400 coats a year,” said Grace Christian Fellowship member and volunteer Cassie Rideout. “What we don’t give away here I usually set up at my house and the church and the preschool will call us when they see a need.”
Sharp said Rideout is an integral part of the clothing drive.
“She finds some great sales over the years. She knows how to pay next to nothing,” he said.
Yard sales are the key, according to Rideout.
“I hit the yard sales, the 25-mile yard sale, the 100-mile yard sale and the 61-mile yard sale,” she said.
This is an effort that has been going on for over 20 years.
On a recent Wednesday, the group set up in the parking lot of the Black River Coliseum as they have many times before, to hand out coats, hats, socks and gloves to community members in need. They also provided those in attendance with hot dogs, coffee and hot cocoa.
“We do it all because of the love of Jesus. That is our entire motive, no strings attached. Jesus loves us and we love others and we pass on that love in a practical way,” Sharp continued.
Several volunteers from Grace Christian Fellowship, Recycling Grace, Crossroads and Christ Way Ministries assisted with this year’s clothing drive. Grace Christian Fellowship is located at 3200 Warrior Lane in Poplar Bluff.
They are always taking donations and seeking the assistance of volunteers. For more information visit the church’s Facebook page at gcfministricsinc.com or call 573-778-3633.