Rotary Club of Youngstown launches annual campaign providing coats to local children

The Rotary Club of Youngstown has launched its annual Operation Warm fundraising campaign to ensure children in Youngstown have brand-new winter coats this season. Committee Co-Chairs Stacia Erdos and David Stillwagon announced that the campaign is already halfway to its $20,000 goal, thanks to generous community supporters.

Last year, the Rotary Club distributed 1,300 coats to local students. This year, coats will again be gifted to children attending Harding, Volney, Taft, and St. Joseph the Provider Schools in Youngstown.

“Each $20 donation provides a child with a warm winter coat,” said Erdos. “It’s a simple way for community members to make a big impact in a child’s life. They will feel the warmth of our care, and donors will feel the warmth of their gratitude.”

The campaign runs through September 15, with coats ordered in September and distributed in October. Community members are encouraged to contribute in any of the following ways:

Donate Online: Give here

By Mail: Send checks payable to Youngstown Rotary Foundation (memo: “Operation Warm”) to 201 E. Commerce St., Suite 450, Youngstown, OH 44503

Honor a Loved One: Tribute cards are available to purchase coats in memory or appreciation of someone special

Since 2012, the Rotary Club of Youngstown has provided more than 13,600 coats through Operation Warm, a tradition launched locally by Past District Governor Debbie Esbenshade.

“This project represents what Rotary is all about—neighbors helping neighbors,” said Stillwagon. “We invite everyone in the community to join us in reaching our goal and ensuring no child goes without a warm coat this winter.”