Carson City firefighters look to keep students warm

Carson City’s firefighters are collecting funds to purchase new coats for Carson City students in transition between permanent homes through Operation Warm. Supported by the International Association of Fire Fighters and Rotary Clubs across the country, Operation Warm has donated more than 1.7 million coats nationally since its inception in 1998.

“We are so proud to be part of Operation Warm,” said Rachael Schneider, management assistant of Carson Fire Station 51. “We love giving confidence to kids by empowering students to feel like they are good enough for a new coat, being current on trends and making them feel good about themselves.”

Now in its second year of participating, the Carson City Firefighters Association hopes to raise $6,800, enough to purchase 260 coats for local school children, more than doubling its purchase of 100 coats last year. So far, firefighters have collected approximately $3,900 through community and association member donations. Major donors include Carson Medical Group, Capital City Ford and Carson City Toyota. All donations benefit local children.

According to Operation Warm’s website, having a brand new, high quality coat enhances a child’s well-being, builds self-esteem, and generates a feeling of worth for children living in poverty.

“The need is tremendous,” said Brad Mihelic, a Carson City firefighter. “Every $35 is a new coat for a child who may otherwise go without this winter. Every dollar donated is one more dollar closer to a coat for a kid. Last year we saw many of the children who received a coat also needed shoes. Parents have to choose sometimes between buying dinner for the family or buying warm winter clothes.”

Members of the Carson City Firefighters Association will distribute coats to children identified by the Carson City School District on Dec. 10. Fire engines will be on display at Fritch Elementary School.

Donations for the Dec. 10 coat distribution may be made at Carson Fire Station 51 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday through Nov. 23 at 777 S. Stewart Street, Carson City, or online at www.operationwarm.org/carsoncity.

Operation Warm and the Carson City Firefighters Association collect funds year-round. Donations made after the Nov. 23 cut-off will be put toward the 2016 coat fundraiser. Monthly recurring donations may also be made at www.operationwarm.org/carsoncity. Donations are tax deductible.