On Tuesday, Oct. 20, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church opened its doors to families in need for the fourth annual Operation Warm New Coat and Gym Shoe Giveaway. The event, organized by Chosen Outreach Ministries, the church itself, and the Amos Black Women’s Health Initiative, focused on providing essential winter clothing to children from TANF‑eligible households.
Generous donations meet community need
More than 1,500 brand‑new coats and 500 pairs of gym shoes were available for distribution. The first 300 families to arrive also received hats, gloves and scarves, ensuring that children would stay warm as temperatures drop.
Additional incentives for attendees
Every family that registered for the giveaway entered a drawing for one of three $150 Visa gift cards. Winners were announced at 3 p.m., adding a welcome financial boost for families already stretched thin.
How to register and attend
The event ran from noon to 4 p.m. at the church’s 301 Mia Avenue location. Parents could sign up in advance through SignUpGenius or call Jacqui Moore at 937‑241‑0965 for assistance. The streamlined registration helped organizers manage crowd flow and ensure that each child received a coat and shoes.
Community partners and faith‑based service
Chosen Outreach Ministries, known for its work with low‑income families, partnered with the Amos Black Women’s Health Initiative, which focuses on health education and support for women of color. Their collaboration with Mt. Moriah Baptist Church underscores the power of faith‑based organizations to address practical needs in the community.
Impact on families
For many families, the giveaway represents more than a seasonal handout; it relieves a financial burden that can be especially heavy during the winter months. By providing coats and shoes, the partners help children attend school comfortably and participate in physical activities without fear of cold‑related illness.
Looking ahead
Organizers expressed optimism that the event’s success will encourage continued support and possibly expand the program in future years. They thanked volunteers, donors and local businesses whose contributions made the large inventory possible.
Operation Warm’s fourth year demonstrates how churches and community groups can work together to uphold the values of caring for families, protecting children and strengthening neighborhoods.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
