Susie’s Coats Marks Decade of Giving

A Susie’s Coats volunteer helps children find items during the 2014 giveaway.

Susie’s Coats, a Toledo clothing giveaway for the needy that is organized by Susan Perry, a faculty member of The University of Findlay, will mark a decade of service with distribution scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at Cherry Street Mission’s Life Revitalization Center, site of the former Macomber High School, 1501 Monroe St.

Previous events were held outside at the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library. Organizers hope that this year’s indoor event will enable them to assist more people.

The effort has tremendously expanded since its inception in 2006, when Perry’s goal was to hand out at least 50 coats. In 2013, more than 800 items were given away. That number doubled last year, with more than 1,800 winter clothing items provided.

Perry, who is an instructor and director of UF’s Sonography Programs, said some of her students will also be volunteering this year on distribution day.

The giveaway helps to meet the needs of underprivileged Toledoans by giving away new and gently used coats, scarves and gloves. Susie’s Coats also donates items to homeless shelters and to children who attend Toledo Public Schools.

No proof of income is required. Anyone can pick up items for themselves or people they know who are in need.

Items can be dropped off between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 at Cherry Street Mission’s Life Revitalization Center.