The winter months can be a terrible struggle for some families.   Sometimes families have to decide whether to buy a coat for their child or food.  Our student population is not immune.  This effort by BLaST IU 17 staff helped make that decision easier for families in the 4 counties they serve: Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan and Tioga.

Collection bins were placed at the Williamsport and Canton BLaST offices and the drive ran from early December until January 7th to gather coats, hats, scarves and gloves.  BLaST was happy to report that in all 112 winter items were donated.

“No one should have to be cold,” shared Dr. Christina Steinbacher-Reed, Executive Director of IU 17, “and it is hard to think that anyone heading out to school would be without a proper coat, but this is the reality for far too many in our community.”

After items were handpicked and distributed to students served by BLaST, the remaining articles were donated to the Salvation Army.

“Thank you to all who participated to make this coat drive a success,” said Major Paula Spencer, Corps Officer for the Salvation Army.  “Because of them, many people will have a much warmer winter.”

For more information on BLaST IU 17 and the many programs and services offered, please visit the website at www.IU17.org