John Jay Students Receive Winter Coats Courtesy of Operation Warm and FedEx
Just in time for the chilly Illinois winter, students at John Jay Elementary School received a heartwarming donation from Operation Warm and FedEx last Friday: complimentary winter coats.
The process began when John Jay staff submitted a grant application to Operation Warm for the coat donations. With over 2,000 schools on the waitlist, John Jay was thrilled to learn they were selected this year.
“This donation means so much to us, our students, and our community,” said Melissa Tejeda, Community Outreach Specialist at John Jay within CCSD59. “Partnerships and donations such as this one are so important to not only meet a basic need but also to share the responsibility of supporting our youth who shape our future.”
Operation Warm, a national nonprofit is dedicated to producing new, high-quality coats and shoes for children. Their mission goes beyond just providing physical warmth as they aim to create emotional warmth too, using these gifts to foster connections within the community.
The organization partnered with FedEx, who coordinated the activities and flow for Friday’s event, including having over 20 volunteers onsite to assist students in picking out their new winter coats.
“To see the smiles on the faces of the children meant the world,” Karen Pellettiere, a FedEx volunteer said. “This event is one of my favorites that I have always participated in. It is such a heartwarming experience.”
The smiles on the faces of students, volunteers, and John Jay staff lit up the room. Students joyfully joined FedEx volunteers to select their winter coats, choosing from a variety of colors and checking the size to ensure a perfect fit.
We look forward to seeing our students sport their new, colorful winter coats in the coming months, further bringing warmth and joy to our school community.
