WICHITA, Kansas – On Monday, the Wichita Firefighters Charitable Fund wrapped up its 10th annual “Coats for Kids” event by distributing free winter coats to students at Ortiz Elementary School. The effort, organized by local firefighters and supported by the nonprofit Operation Warm, aims to ensure every child has a warm coat for the cold months ahead.
Community partners rally to keep children warm
Each year the charitable fund selects a different school to receive the coats. This year, the focus was on Ortiz Elementary, where volunteers handed out the garments directly to students and their families. The coats were sourced from Operation Warm, a national nonprofit that provides high‑quality outerwear, as well as from generous community donations.
Firefighters’ leader shares why the program matters
Matt Schulte, president of the Wichita Firefighters Charitable Fund, explained the personal impact of the giveaway. “When the kid goes, ‘you’re going to give me a coat for free?’ Yes, we’re going to give you a coat for free. ‘What if I’ve got a coat?’ I don’t care, you’re going to get another coat,” Schulte said. “We want to make sure every kid gets a coat. They can hand one off to their sibling or something else. It helps the families out, that’s the big thing.”
How you can help next year
Anyone interested in supporting the next “Coats for Kids” event can visit the Wichita Firefighters Charitable Fund’s website and make a donation labeled “Coats for Kids.” The organization pledges to set aside each contribution specifically for purchasing coats for future students, ensuring the program’s continuity.
Why local charitable actions matter
Providing winter coats is more than a seasonal gesture; it addresses a basic need for families facing tight budgets. Warm clothing reduces the risk of illness during cold weather and allows children to focus on learning rather than worrying about the chill. The fire department’s involvement underscores the broader role first‑responders play in community well‑being beyond emergency services.
Looking ahead
The Wichita Firefighters Charitable Fund plans to continue its annual coat giveaway for years to come, seeking new partners and donors to expand the reach of the program. By keeping the focus on local schools and families, the initiative reinforces the strong ties between public servants and the neighborhoods they protect.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.
