A Reflection on the Coat Drive

Now that we have delivered some 320 coats, plus plenty of gloves and mittens, to roughly twelve Harvey and Chicago Public Schools, it is obvious that there is a need to continue the program in the fall of 2012. The great news is that the program will be in place again next year.

It is apparent that providing supplies, at the start of the school year, remains a primary and critical need that we will continue to address in the coming year. However, as we continue to assess the needs of the various schools, and the community at large, it is clear that an ongoing effort needs to made to address a whole array of concerns that have much to do with learning.

Whether it is supplies, food, clothing, or other needs, we will do the best we can to bring the type of aid that supplements and augments the learning process. It's not simply a matter of dollars and cents or a one-time delivery of supplies.

The solution to poverty, low achievement among some students, years of unemployment and other concerns is not found in a simple solution. I won't kid anyone, there is blatant neglect here and there are many that need to be held responsible.

All we can do as a charity is to do our part to assist children, often through no fault of their own, make the best of a tough situation. And along the way, there are, and will be, many success stories.

The coat drive is just one of the great successes!!!

Many thanks,
Dick