St. Albans, Vermont — The Rotary Club of St. Albans proudly announces the successful completion of this year’s “Spread the Warmth” Coat Drive and extends its deep appreciation to the entire Franklin County community for their extraordinary generosity.
Thanks to the kindness of local residents, businesses, and student volunteers, hundreds of new and gently used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and winter accessories were collected throughout November. These items were distributed to organizations and families across many Franklin County communities, ensuring that children, adults, and seniors throughout the region received warmth and comfort as winter arrives.
“This community shows time and again that compassion is one of our greatest shared strengths,” said Karyn Rocheleau, Past President of the Rotary Club of St. Albans, and a driving force behind the annual coat drive. “Every coat donated reflects the care we have for one another.”
Rotary Club President Leon Berthiaume emphasized the importance of community partnerships in making this year’s effort so impactful:
“The success of the ‘Spread the Warmth’ Coat Drive is a shining example of what we can accomplish when our community comes together,” the President said. “We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support from residents, local businesses, students, and service groups. Your generosity helped ensure that families in many communities across Franklin County will stay warm this winter. Thank you for being part of this mission of kindness and service.”
The Rotary Club extends special thanks to the many businesses that served as drop-off centers, making it easy for residents to participate. Their ongoing support is vital to the continued success of this project.
2025 Coat Drive Drop-Off Locations
- St. Albans Hannaford
- People’s Trust Company
- Champlain Insuring / OneDigital
- Collins Perley Sports & Fitness Center
- Bellows Free Academy (BFA) St. Albans
- Community Bank
- NOTCH (Northern Tier Center for Health) –
- NCSS Ted Mable Family Center
- The Ballet School of Vermont
We also extend sincere appreciation to the organizations that held internal coat drives, significantly increasing the number of items collected:
- Northwestern Medical Center
- Perrigo Nutritional’s
- Vermont Precision Tools
- Students at Bellows Free Academy (BFA)
- Northern Explorer and Franklin County 4-Leaf Clovers.
“Every coat carries a story,” said Stephanie Hodgeman, BFA Rotary Interact Advisor. “These donations do more than keep someone warm—they restore confidence, bring relief, and remind our neighbors that they are supported.”
From local businesses to youth volunteers and generous donors, this year’s drive reflects the spirit of Franklin County: community, compassion, and collective action.
Although the coat drive has concluded, the Rotary Club of St. Albans continues its mission of service throughout the year. Those wishing to support future initiatives may visit www.stalbansrotaryclub.com for more information.
Stay connected by following the Rotary Club of St. Albans on Facebook.
