Paul Sweeney Coat Drive

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Created on Monday, 17 November 2014 16:32

Written by Nick Aresco

St. Johnsbury - With the first accumulated snow of the season, staying warm is a struggle for the less fortunate. This Saturday marked the 12th annual Paul Sweeney Coat Drive.

Hundreds of coats lined the outside of the Salvation Army for anyone in need of a winter jacket. All of the coats, hats, and mittens were free of charge and open to the general public.

Of course, this is more than just a coat drive. Back in 2003, Paul Sweeney, a resident of St. Johnsbury, decided to hold a coat Drive to help the community. However, two months later, Sweeney past away. Now, the Coat Drive is in memory of Sweeney for all that he started.

Phyllis Sweeney, the wife of Paul Sweeney, is happy to see the community reacting to such a great cause and keeping Paul in their minds. "I'm so glad because Paul… he loved doing anything for everyone. You could count on him for anything and the community needs something like this. I know that they appreciate it."

Over 200 hundred people came out to the drive, and with the help from local businesses, banks, and hospitals, this year's drive had over 600 coats, hats and mittens. All the winter wear that was left over after the drive was donated to the Salvation Army.