Philly coat drive aims to bring warmth, dignity to underprivileged

The firefighters union is teaming up with Philadelphia City Council for a major clothing drive.

But this isn’t a typical drive where you’re asked to grab old coats out of the closet, said Philadelphia Firefighters Local 22 Vice President Tim McShea.

“We’re raising money to buy new coats for underprivileged Philadelphia children,” McShea said. “In addition to giving them warmth all winter, we’re giving them the dignity that comes with having a brand-new coat to call their own.”

Councilman Jim Kenney, who has been helping Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell with the drive, said his colleague has taught him many things.

“One of the most important things I have learned from her over the years is to understand how to walk in other people’s shoes,” he said. “And we are only one step away from being in need and having to need someone to help us.”

Electricians Union Local 98 kicked off the drive by donating $10,000, enough to buy coats for 300 children.