Duluth Firefighters Local 101 Helps Kids Get Winter Coats

DULUTH- Duluth Firefighters Local 101 say they want to make sure no child goes into this winter without a good coat, so they kicked off "Operation Warm."Firefighter, Jon Otis said, "If I could, I would buy every kid in Duluth a jacket."Firefighters like Otis, are intimately aware of the needs of Duluth families, because they see them at their most vulnerable time.That's why they want to make sure every kid has a sturdy coat this winter.Otis said, "if we can prevent people from becoming frostbit, get kids to school, that's kind of our goal."The firefighters are hoping to raise $10,000 to buy 300 coats."They're really warm, well insulated jackets. Well made, in America, by American workers."Duluth Firefighters Local 101 is collaborating with "Kids Closet of Duluth" to make sure every kid has what they need.Coordinator, Char Kerelko, "really we hear often, I don't know what we would have done without you."Kids Closet of Duluth has been working since 1982 to make sure Duluth kids are ready for school.Kerelko said, "we have a complete winter outfit and three classroom outfits for every child who is referred."All parents have to do is get a referral from a school social worker and they can get brand new clothes, shoes, and boots they may not have been able to afford.Kerelko said, "parents are really amazed when they come in. It's obvious they're not expecting near what we have. 'Is it really free,' sometimes they say."The volunteers, mostly retired school workers say sometimes parents are afraid to ask assistance, but encourage them to reach out, because they are there to offer support.Kerelko said, "I think some people really do not like to get help. It's not a good feeling to be saying I need help. We're here because we want the children to have enough."On September 6th, Duluth Firefighters Local 101 will have a booth at Twin Ports Bridge Festival/Lake Superior Harvest Fest at Bayfront park. They will be selling Mike & Jen's hot coco.On October 27th, there will be a ticketed event with Bent Paddle including beer, food and prizes.In October, Duluth Firefighters Local will be sleeping outside in Downtown Duluth, to raise awareness and fundraise.At any time you can donate at https://donate.operationwarm.org/page/contribute/duluth-local-no-101-firefighters