Friday, October 3, was a day filled with joy, gratitude, and community spirit at East Side Elementary, as every single student received a brand-new winter coat thanks to the generosity of an anonymous local donor and the support of caring community partners in Bedford County.

This was the third year cityCURRENT has organized either a shoe or coat distribution event, and once again, the impact was felt far beyond the school’s walls. Students lit up as volunteers helped them try on their coats, pick out books, receive hats and gloves to go with their coat and celebrate together. For many children, the gift was not just about warmth—it was a reminder that they are seen, valued, and supported by their community.

The event was made thanks to the generosity of an anonymous local donor who lives in the community and with the collaboration of many local partners:

• Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
• The World Literacy Foundation
• Five Below
• Chick-Fil-A
• County Commissioner Greg Vick
• Operation Warm
• cityCURRENT

More in next week's T-G.