The Livingston Coat Drive is now winding down for the season, announced founder Jeff Friedman of Livingston. Friedman, known popularly as "The Coat Guy," explained, "Final donations are still arriving at the West Essex Tribune office and through private pick-up. This means there will be one more delivery prior to the conclusion of an ever-growing effort to provide warmth to the poor, homeless and disenfranchised."
Along with Coat Drive "Dream Team" volunteer Candi Samansky of Livingston, Friedman delivered 64 warm coats and assorted accessories to the North Reformed Church on Broad Street in Newark. "I've learned that North Reformed Church is a major provider of food and clothing to the poor in homeless in downtown Newark," noted Friedman. "So I return there often, because they always need and appreciate new 'stock.' "
At press time, the total number of coats collected stood at 2,096. "I'm expecting that we'll break 2,100 with the next and final delivery to assist those who basically have nothing," said the Coat Guy. "I'd like to thank all of the generous and compassionate people out there who donated to the Coat Drive, and to remind everyone that it's still coat season, even though the temperature has risen this week. Just think about which of us doesn’t wear a warm coat or jacket when the temperature rises to a balmy 45 degrees… End of story."
The final coat count, he added, will be tallied and announced in next week’s Tribune.
Although this year's collection is coming to a close, the Coat Drive will start up for next season during the fall. "We'll definitely be back next year," Friedman said. "After four years, I have plans to expand our obviously needed charity. In fact, according to both economic and societal forecasts, the reality of the working poor and homeless will only expand in numbers and circumstance. So will we!"
Last minute donations will be accepted through this Friday, March 13. Coats may be dropped off at the offices of the West Essex Tribune at 495 South Livingston Avenue (next to ShopRite); West Orange Jewelers, 16 Eisenhower Parkway, Roseland; and the Village Laundry Center at 213 Bellevue Avenue, Upper Montclair. For private pick-up through this Friday, send an e-mail to Jeff Friedman at jftv1@verizon.net.
Photo Information: Livingston Coat Drive founder Jeff Friedman and coat drive volunteer Candi Samansky are shown here with the 64 warm coats and assorted accessories they delivered last week to North ...
