January 14, 2025 -
BURLINGTON, VT (WCAX) - Vermont Federal Credit Union is teaming up with WCAX once again for the Great Vermont Coat Drive. LUND, The Vermont Department of Children and Families (DCF), and several local non-profit organizations will distribute coats throughout the state, ensuring that Vermonters in need receive the warmth they deserve this winter.
As a Credit Union, Vermont Federal is all about people helping people, with a purpose of helping Vermonters prosper no matter where they may be on life’s journey. The Great Vermont Coat Drive is an excellent opportunity for all Vermonters to come together as a community and extend a helping hand to their neighbors who are in need.
“We are actively involved because we live in our communities. For us, it’s personal that we build healthy communities, said Jean Giard, CEO of Vermont Federal Credit Union. “We have started this coat drive because there’s a big, big need out there for warm coats in the cold Vermont weather. It’s not just a coat. It’s caring. It’s caring for those individuals who are unable to buy a coat, and it’s caring for those individuals who are struggling to put food on the table. Vermont Federal cares about our communities because we live and work in those communities. There’s a great need out there, and we can help.”
The Coat Drive is one of many community events and charitable activities Vermont Federal Credit Union supports. In 2024 alone, Vermont Federal Credit Union employees dedicated more than 1,600 hours to supporting communities throughout Vermont.
“It’s great to work here at Vermont Federal Credit Union because of the importance that we put on community. It’s a great, rewarding environment where we can make a difference for people,” said Peter Winch, VP of Marketing at Vermont Federal. “I think the Coat Drive is a great example of that. If you think about our membership and the WCAX viewers, there’s a real opportunity here. If everybody were to donate one coat, could be adult size, could be children’s size, whatever it might be, we could make a major impact on families in Vermont.”
“Many hands make light work, which is why finding a partner like Vermont Federal Credit Union is so exciting,” said Jay Barton, Vice President and General Manager of WCAX-TV. “The Great Vermont Coat Drive is about sharing warmth from family to family across Vermont. Knowing that this partnership will benefit local organizations supporting children, families, and other vulnerable Vermonters, we are certain this will make a real difference in hundreds or even thousands of lives.”
The Vermont Department for Children and Families and LUND are local organizations that work tirelessly to provide a wide array of benefits, services, and support to hundreds of thousands of Vermonters each year. Their efforts encompass a diverse range of individuals, including children, youth, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. These organizations are committed to fostering a sense of community and well-being across the state, ensuring that every Vermonter, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the resources and care they need to thrive.
“Partnering with Vermont Federal makes a lot of our work possible. With the Coat Drive, it’s bringing a resource to a lot of families, and that’s something that we need right now.” Said Sam Hoeltge with DCF. “I think it’s so nice to be able to wake up in the morning and not have to think about something as basic as having a coat. If Vermont Federal wasn’t involved, we definitely would not have the same level of reach. Donating a coat is a step in the right direction to ending people being out in the cold.”
If you are interested in participating, please bring any size new or gently used coat to any of Vermont Federal’s eight branches. Drop-off locations are below or view the full list (with location details) here. Donate today and help bring warmth to a family in need this winter.
