Knights of Columbus Distribute Several Hundred Coats to Children in Detroit

Following from its statewide distribution last weekend, the Michigan State Council of the Knights of Columbus in conjunction with two local Detroit councils distributed 200 coats to children in Detroit. 

Distributions also took place in Flint, Mt. Morris, Hart, and Battle Creek last weekend.  In total, Knights of Columbus in Michigan donated approximately 800 news coats to needy youngsters.


Today’s distributions took place at St. Anne de Detroit Church and Holy Redeemer Church.

These events were part of the second annual “Coats for Kids” initiative of the Knights of Columbus. Similar distributions are planned in more than 20 cities throughout North America. The Knights of Columbus will distribute approximately 10,000 Ultimate Apparel coats this winter.

The initiative began last year, in an effort to help families with children living in colder climates who have been severely impacted by the sharp and sudden downturn in the economy.

“As our nation faces tough economic times, we believe it is very important to respond within our communities in concrete ways to help those most in need,” said Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson. “Helping children in need was a fundamental reason for the formation of the Knights of Columbus in 1882 and continues to be a very important component of our work today.”

“Last week 600 coats were distributed in the central and western parts of the state,” said Ed Strach, State Program Director for the MI Knights of Columbus.  “This weekend, we’re so excited to bring Coats for Kids to Detroit.  Like all of Michigan, it’s been hit hard by the economic downturn.  There is a need to help those in our communities now more than at any time I can remember.”

If you have any questions about the program, please contact Robert Ennis, director of Fraternal Operations and Programs at (203) 752-4616 or Peter Sonski, director of Public Relations at (203) 752-4182.