The ladies at Iola’s Senior Center are sweating the coming of cold weather.
“We don’t have hardly any coats or boots for children,” said Helen Weide, who works as a volunteer at the center, 223 N. State.
Sure enough, the pickings are slim. The selection of children’s shoes is mostly sandals or thin canvas.
As for coats, few are on hand.
“We’re OK for adult clothes,” said Patsy Gomez, another volunteer.
As if on cue, Iolan Bob Hawk came in bearing a pair of slacks.
“We sure could use some bedding, especially blankets and sheets for queen- and king-size beds,” Gomez added.
At mention of the state of affairs for local children, Hawk recommended checking the local schools to see how the Rotary club’s program of providing clothing was faring.
A drop by Lincoln Elementary showed clothes neatly arranged by size. The clothes are provided to children who come to school lacking adequate clothing or perhaps get their clothes soiled while at school.
While hats and gloves appear on the shelves, no coats or shoes to guard against the winter cold are provided.
“We’re very appreciative for what Rotary provides,” said Brenda Leonard, school secretary.
ALLEN Community College’s Wellness Committee also is collecting coats, gloves and new hats for families in need.
The program started a week ago, and already 10 coats and seven hats have been handed over to Hope Unlimited.
“It was a little slow at first,” said Karie White, one of the organizers, although that may have been partially attributable to the mild temperatures that have persisted well into fall.
The Iola campus is serving as a drop-off for the winterwear through Dec. 18. Donations can be made in the college administration offices, or in the library.
For more information, call White at 365-5116, extension 305.
