People’s City Mission ‘really in need’ ahead of Channel 8 Coat Drive

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Empty racks and only a handful of Winter coats — that’s the scene at the People’s City Mission Help Center right now.

A space that’s usually bustling with selection is instead feeling the strain of need.

“Big need in the community right now, not just at the shelter but here at the Help Center,” said Pastor Tom Barber. “We go through a lot of coats. If we can raise 5,000 coats, they’ll be gone in a week.”

With frigid temperatures and more families seeking help, the People’s City Mission is partnering with Channel 8 for a coat drive on Thursday.

SEE ALSO: Channel 8 teams up with People’s City Mission for winter coat drive on Thursday

Pastor Tom calls the drive essential to keep those in need out of the cold.

“We have 27,000 people who shop here,” he said. “Many of them are having a hard time right now financially. So things like coats and shoes and clothing tend to go to the back of the list, cause food and essentials go to the front of the list, so they’re really in need of coats.”

Donations collected will go straight onto the shopping racks, giving the Mission a chance to refill and expand what’s available.

And one of the best aspects is the joy it brings to people’s lives.

“When people come here, they look for things like this all of the time,” Pastor Tom said. “When they come here, and they find a coat, they’re so excited because they finally have something that’s going to keep them warm, and they got it for free because we give away everything for free. You can see their faces light up.”