Highlands parent Christina Faltot was looking for a way to “do good during the bad.”
“In the midst of 2020, I was personally lost in the negativity of our world. Between isolation and division of covid and a very divided community over the election, I just wanted something to throw myself into that was completely positive,” said Faltot, of Harrison. “I needed something to fill my spirit.”
She is spearheading the district’s second annual coat drive, “Winter-Ready Rams,” intended to help keep children in all grades warm when temperatures begin to dip.
The mother of two said she figured, even if she collected just five coats, it would spur good vibes.
Efforts last year far exceeded her initial hopes.
People donated nearly 180 coats, 12 snow suits and several pairs of gloves, hats and scarves.
Faltot washed and packaged each coat for safe delivery with help from the district.
This year, Faltot and other volunteers are eyeing a goal of 300 coats for collection.
They plan to set up at the Highlands Golden Rams homecoming game on Friday. Bins will be available at the entrance gates from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Communications Coordinator Jen Goldberg lauded the program.
“We thank her for organizing this effort for our students,” Goldberg said.
Anyone who is not able to make it to the game can donate warm winter clothes at three bins throughout the district. They are outside at 200 Banbury Lane and 233 Chinkapin Drive, both in Harrison, and 1023 Stieren Ave. in Brackenridge.
Faltot said donations are lagging but partially attributed it to recent unusually warm temperatures.
“People aren’t thinking about bundling up yet,” she said.
By partnering with the district, volunteers are hoping to target students most in need. Faltot credited middle school Principal Kim Price for helping to see that donations were made last year with privacy.
“Our Highlands families have been going through so much the last couple of years, many struggling to make it week to week,” Faltot said. “Things like food insecurity are a real thing, often leaving little money for other essentials.
“Kids should never be cold and parents shouldn’t have to feel worse when faced with decisions between food and warm coats.”
