October 29, 2009
CORNING - It’s only the first day of The Salvation Army's annual 'Children's Chill Chaser's Shop,' but within the first hour it’s evident all needs may not be fulfilled. “I think we're going to go through what we have pretty quickly,” said Captain Kim Merchant, of the Salvation Army in Corning. Captain Merchant says they’re expecting up to 300 needy families during the two-day event. Normally, they don’t see a big demand for children's coats until this annual event, but this year’s early snowfall brought an early rush. “We are seeing more and more people come here and get things that they can save a little bit on their budget and stretch their dollar even more.”
As some families found the coats they needed, others were having a difficult time finding coats, especially for their boys. “We always have a hard time with boys, boys tend to be rough around their clothing so people are unable to pass them along,” said Captain Merchant. But they’re still accepting donations. All donated coats must be gently worn with working zippers and snaps, “but anything anyone would have that they could bring down especially in children's sizes would really be appreciated,” said Captain Merchant.
If you have a coat to donate, drop it off at The Salvation Army in Corning, located at 32 East Denison Parkway.
If you're child needs a coat the giveaway runs again tomorrow (Oct. 30th) from 9-12. Families are asked to bring proof of a school-aged child in their household and proof of income.
