COATS FOR KIDS 2020
For the 28th consecutive year, Dermody Cleaners in Taunton is currently conducting their annual “COATS FOR KIDS” drive to enable underprivileged children in the greater Taunton area to be warm and cozy with winter coats and jackets. Each year, Dermody collects over 1,000 coats and has collected approximately 48,000 coats since the program’s inception. Dermody Cleaners will clean and sanitize the donated coats free of charge and will deliver them to Saint Vincent de Paul Society’s Center on Washington Street in Taunton for distribution to the needy children and their families.
As an added reward for the generosity of all those who donate, customers will receive 20% off the cleaning of their own coat. This is a win/win for those who donate and the community they support.
This year presents a new set of challenges, given the pandemic and it’s restrictions. So drop-offs can be made contact-free just by calling ahead.
Residents of the area are invited to donate children’s gently worn winter coats to any of the Dermody Cleaners’ locations: 34 Cohannet Street, 648 County Street (Hart’s Four Corners), 330 Bedford Street in Lakeville (Sava’s Plaza), or 1273 GAR Highway in Somerset (Route 6).
“COATS FOR KIDS” is a January-specific event, collecting all month long.
Terry Dermody, speaking for Dermody Cleaners acknowledges that this year looks different than years’ prior: “Everyone is struggling with the pandemic and its consequences, but when adults suffer, children suffer even more. Children have enough to worry about these days and they shouldn’t have to worry about being cold as well. We like to do our part in making a difference in these kids’ lives.”
Mr. Dermody wants to thank the additional efforts and support put forth by Crossed Sabers Ski & Sport of Raynham, Berkley Middle School, Taunton Extended Day Care, and GE Fanuc of Mansfield this winter season. He especially would like to thank the Saint Vincent DePaul Society for their continued cooperation.
The Saint Vincent de Paul Center is located at 141 Washington Street in Taunton and is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to noon and Wednesday evenings between the hours of 5:30 to 7 pm, for the food pantry. In the event of an emergency, anyone can call upon the Vincentians to respond at once. The telephone number for such an emergency is 1-508-823-6676.
The “Coats for Kids” campaign is the main community service campaign conducted by Dermody Cleaners. Other community projects include their Holiday Food Drive and ongoing support of the Boys and Girls Club of Metro South. If you would like more information, call Terry Dermody at 508-822-6161.
