The Northern New York Community Foundation recently approved a $2,500 matching grant to support a “Coats for Kids” campaign to help provide winter clothing to students in need attending Carthage Central School. The grassroots effort was started in 2013 by Carthage Central School board member, Joseph A. Colangelo, in partnership with the school district. After a series of contributions, funding was allocated toward the purchase of winter coats, boots, hats and gloves for students. Last year, more than $4,000 was raised through local residents, businesses and organizations to supply winter attire to over 100 students.
“It’s hard enough being a kid with the necessities. It’s much harder being a kid without the necessities. That’s one of the reasons why I started this. There is no reason a kid should even be cold or hungry in our community,” Mr. Colangelo said.
“This is a great way to collaborate so that more students and their families can be helped. The type of commitment Mr. Colangelo has demonstrated is something worthy of supporting and holding up as model example of citizen philanthropy,” said Rande S. Richardson, Community Foundation executive director.
Over the last three years, close to $10,000 has been raised and more than 250 Carthage Central students received winter clothing through the community campaign. This year, the Community Foundation will match contributions, dollar-for-dollar, up to $2,500 for this initiative.
“Any of our principals at the school can share a story on student reactions to this effort,” said Peter J. Turner, Carthage Central School District superintendent. “We’ve had high school students moved to tears for the fact that someone was thinking about them. Elementary school kids are so proud to be receiving a coat as a gift from this campaign. Their smiles are ear-to-ear. I give Joe a lot of credit. It was his idea from the start.”
Donors interested in making a charitable contribution to support this campaign may make a gift to the Northern New York Community Foundation, 120 Washington Street, Suite 400, Watertown, NY 13601. Please designate your gift to the “Coats for Kids Campaign Fund.”
The Northern New York Community Foundation makes grants to support the work of non-profit organizations and provides scholarships to individuals in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. The Foundation has been built and added to from gifts (both while living and through their legacy plans) by individuals and organizations committed to meeting the changing needs of Northern New York, as well as supporting specific charitable interests and passions.