Donations help United Way provide 142 coats to local kids

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — United Way of West Central Mississippi announced a generous monetary donation from Malcolm Butler that made it possible to purchase 142 winter coats for youth across the community, helping ensure children stay warm during the cold weather season.

The coats will be distributed to youth throughout Warren County who have been identified as most in need through a coordinated community partnership effort. United Way of West Central Mississippi partnered with the Vicksburg Warren Youth Development Center to assist with planning and identifying children and families who could benefit most from the coat initiative.

Through this partnership, United Way and the Youth Development Center worked closely with local schools and community organizations to locate students who are experiencing financial hardship or lack access to adequate winter clothing. By involving trusted community partners, the organizations were able to ensure coats were directed to children and families most in need while protecting privacy and preserving dignity.

“This donation has an immediate impact on children and families right here in our community,” said Michele Connelly, Executive Director of United Way of West Central Mississippi. “When temperatures drop, a warm coat becomes more than a piece of clothing; it becomes a sense of comfort, safety, and support. We are grateful to Malcolm Butler for stepping forward with generosity and compassion to help our youth and by helping identify those pressing needs in our community.”

The coat initiative aligns with United Way’s broader mission of building stronger communities by meeting urgent needs and supporting families through collaborative efforts. United Way of West Central Mississippi continues to work alongside local partners to address challenges facing youth, strengthen community resources, and expand opportunities for individuals and families across West Central Mississippi.

To learn more about United Way of West Central Mississippi or to support programs that benefit local children and families, visit unitedwayvicksburg.org or call 601-636-1733.