CASPER, WY — The Kiwanis Club is once again mobilizing the community to collect winter coats, hats, scarves, mittens, snow pants and boots for families in need. This year the program will distribute the donations from a new site, Wind City Kids at 1511 S. Melrose St., making it easier for residents to receive warm clothing.
Donation collection points across town
Donors can drop off new or good‑condition used items at a network of donation boxes located throughout Casper. Boxes are placed at Hilltop Bank, First Interstate Bank, Platte Valley Bank, Jonah Bank, ANB Bank, the Humane Society, PMCH CPA & Wealth Management, Wyo Ortho, Millview Laundromat, Kelly Walsh High School, Natrona County High School, Wind City Kids, Wind City Physical Therapy, Industrial Screen & Maintenance Inc., Casper College Health Sciences, WyHy Federal Credit Union and the Salvation Army Hope Center.
Distribution dates and process
Winter gear will be available for pick‑up on November 7, November 21 and December 5, each day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wind City Kids location. The distribution center will be set up like a store, but no payment is required. Anyone in the community who needs a coat, hat, scarf, mittens, snow pants or boots is welcome to browse the selection and take what they need.
Why the new location matters
“We have some older coats that have been donated from a while back, but we also have quite a bit of really nice brand‑new stuff,” said Jessica Pratt, a former Kiwanis Club president. The club’s volunteers sort and clean each item before placing it on display, ensuring that families receive clean, functional clothing.
Historical impact and ongoing need
Last winter the Kiwanis Club collected and gave away more than 1,000 coats, according to club treasurer Karen Ewart. While Casper has not yet experienced the full force of winter weather, the need for warm clothing remains urgent, especially for elementary‑age boys, a group the club historically receives fewer boots and gear for.
Volunteer effort
Club members travel around town once a week, or more often when donation boxes fill early, to gather items. They then sort, clean and arrange the gear at the new distribution center. “The little kids are the best. They come out with their hat and scarf on even if it’s warm outside that day. They’re all proud of what they have. They look for that matching hat, matching everything,” said Linda Miller, the Kiwanis Club secretary.
How to help
Donations are accepted through November 30. Residents who wish to contribute new or gently used winter apparel can drop items at any of the listed locations. The Kiwanis Club encourages the community to support the effort, emphasizing that a warm coat can make a profound difference for a family during the cold months.
For more information, contact the Kiwanis Club at their office or visit the Wind City Kids location during distribution days.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
