Donate to St. Vincent de Paul’s “Operation Coat Check” at BCBSM Headquarters November 6

Ashley Hennen

| 2 min read

The weather is turning and it’s going to be cold—very cold—before we know it. Knowing that, St. Vincent de Paul is launching “Operation Coat Check,” a rallying effort across Metro Detroit to collect winter coats for those in need this winter. “The need is greater than ever this year, “ said SVDP Executive Director, Bill Brazier. “After last winter’s polar vortex, we really need the help of the community to meet the increasing numbers of people that are coming to us for help to keep warm.” Residents across the metro Detroit area are encouraged to “check” their closets. Finding a coat too big or small and donating to Operation Coat Check can make a real impact on your neighbor’s quality of life. All 13 of the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores are equipped to take both coat and cash donations through January. Detroit Tiger Alex Avila is also involved in rallying behind this effort. “St. Vincent de Paul is an excellent organization and I truly believe that Operation Coat Check will help so many people,” said Avila, “In my professional career I’m a catcher, but I’m asking Metro Detroiters to ‘pitch’ in to help those in need!” What’s more heartwarming than pitching in to give your neighbor a warm winter coat? Blue Cross Blue Shield will host a pep rally and coat collection this Thursday, Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. The De La Salle High School marching band will kick off the day long event, filled with fun activities. So grab your old winter coats and head down to company headquarters located at 600 Lafayette East in Detroit. “Many people in our community don’t have adequate clothing to stay warm outdoors in winter weather, which can be extremely detrimental to their health and overall quality of life,” said Daniel J. Loepp, president and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “We look forward to lending our support to St. Vincent de Paul’s Operation Coat Check and helping those in need have more resources to prepare for another Michigan winter.” For more on St. Vincent de Paul’s Operation Coat Check and drop off locations, visit http://www.svdpdet.org Photo credit: Stuart Boreham
MI Blues Perspectives is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association