Knights Give Coats to the Homeless in Denver

The K of C gives 400 coats and care packages to people in need.

DENVER – More than 400 homeless in Denver received new winter coats from Knights of Columbus Council 539 today at Lincoln Memorial Park. The distribution was an extension of the Knights’ Coats for Kids program that takes place across North America each year.

“It was heartwarming not only to give out coats but to share with all those we encountered. For many, it was the first new coat they have had been in a while,” said Jon Herskovits, State Secretary of the Colorado Knights of Columbus.

Andrew Wheaton, a General Insurance agent for the Knights of Columbus, echoed Herskovits and said, “Being able to give the people we met the gift of warmth was profoundly impactful.”

The coat distribution coincided with an unusual weather day in Denver. The event started in the morning with temperatures in the low 50’s but temperatures quickly began to drop, and snow was forecasted.

In addition to new winter coats, the Knights also handed out care packages to help the homeless with their well-being. The bags included socks, hygiene products, snacks, hand warmers, and first aid supplies.

“It was amazing to see the love we got from everyone who came. You could see the change in their spirit as they walked away,” said Stephen Sweeney, Financial Secretary for Council 539.

The distribution in Lincoln Park was the pilot event for the Knights of Columbus, who hopes to expand the “Coats for the Homeless” program to other cities.