Around the Cracker Barrel - Warmth from the Heart Gayle Creamer and Jill Leach (Aired 10/11/2024)

Joining Guy Atchley for this Week's Around the Cracker Barrel, Warmth from the Heart is featured. We hear from Program Founder Gayle Creamer, along with Jill Leach of the Green Valley Rotary Club, as they delve into the mission of this vital community initiative. Since 2017, Warmth from the Heart has been providing much-needed jackets to residents of Southern Arizona who face cooler evenings, particularly during the fall and winter months when temperatures can drop significantly.The program aims to bridge the gap for individuals and families struggling to stay warm. The project encourages the community to donate gently-used, unneeded coats and jackets, many of which sit forgotten in closets. These donations are then distributed to those in need, offering them warmth and comfort during the colder seasons. As Gayle and Jill share, something as simple as a coat can make an incredible difference in someone's life, providing physical warmth and showing them they are cared for by their community.One of the most beautiful aspects of Warmth from the Heart is its simplicity and accessibility. Anyone can help by donating coats that they no longer wear. These items, which may otherwise be discarded or sit unused, are transformed into a source of warmth for those less fortunate. It’s a powerful reminder that even the smallest gestures can have a profound impact. One story is told about jackets from as far away as Huntington Beach California donated. Other ways Jackets are collected are discussed. The demand for assistance continues to grow. A recent count had 97 families seeking the help  in the region to stay warm. As Jill Leach emphasizes, each coat donated is a step toward ensuring that no one in our community has to face the cold without proper clothing. It’s a sobering reality, but also a hopeful one, as programs like Warmth from the Heart work tirelessly to address this issue.The Next Jacket Distribution will take place November 9th 8am-12Noon at Sopori School in Arrivaca. If you would like to donate whether Jackets or Monetary, they are now accepting new and gently-used coats, jackets, hoodies and sweatshirts for men, women and children. Drop off locations are at all Santa Cruz Fire District locations, GVR Social Centers, Green Valley Council, GV Chamber of Commerce office and Trendz Consignment.We are also accepting cash and checks. Make checks payable to the Green Valley Rotary Club Foundation (P.O. Box 701, Green Valley, AZ 85622) Donations are tax deductable.