Working Together To Give Kids the Warmth of the Season

New Coats Collected For Kids To Be Distributed

With temperatures already dipping into the low twenties, the demand for warm coats for the needy is greater than ever. In an effort to get as many children as possible the proper winter apparel, the Town of Hempstead has partnered with Kids Helping Kids, by Kids Way, Inc., a local non-profit organization with various local social service groups that assist the needy.

"I'm delighted that the Town of Hempstead was able to facilitate an association between this wonderful organization and local groups that can distribute a vast quantity of warm apparel to those who truly need it", stated Town Supervisor Kate Murray. "Just in time for Christmas, thousands of young people will now be able to enjoy the "warmth of the season."

Circulo de la Hispanidad, the Salvation Army and The Interfaith Nutrition Network were the recipients of thousands of brand new winter coats and warm outerwear provided by Kids Helping Kids. A media event, announcing the availability of new coats was attended by Murray, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Town Clerk Mark Bonilla, Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin, Kids Helping Kids President Bob Eslick and representatives for three organizations who are receiving the new apparel.

Now in its seventh year, Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc. has distributed thousands of "new only" winter coats and warm outerwear to area children. This year the organization has received over $175,000 worth of new coats, sweatshirts, sweatpants, infant and toddler apparel, and more on the way. "Our goal this holiday season is to provide the gift of warmth to children in need who may not otherwise receive new things" stated Bob Eslick, Executive Director of Kids Helping Kids.

Due to the generosity of clothing importers such as Albert Pardo of Mecca 5/Star and Issac Levy of High Life Apparel, Kids Helping Kids has received to date 3,463 units of apparel to be distributed to needy families and their children throughout Long Island and surrounding areas. Other importers include Adjmi Apparel Group. Long Street, Haddad Brands, Silver Goose and G&W Industries. In addition, because of the financial support from Claudio Zarate of Empire Bakery Equipment and Angelo Giannuzzi of Tesoro Restaurant and the generosity of Joe DiFiore of Monreale Bakery, who has donated the use of his trucks to make all the deliveries, area kids in need will have a truly warm holiday season.

"Thanks to Bob Eslick of Kids Helping Kids, thousands of young people will have a warm feeling all over this holiday season," concluded Murray.

To learn more about Kids Helping Kids go to HappyKidsClub@aol.com.