By: WCSO Staff
[Worcester] — Throughout November, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and staff from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office visited Saint John’s Food for the Poor, El Buen Samaritano, the African Cultural Center, Net of Compassion, Abby’s House, Yes We Care, Andy’s Attic, Safe Exit Initiative, and several other local nonprofits to deliver hundreds of brand-new winter coats for community members in need.
These Worcester visits were part of the Sheriff’s Office Annual Winter Coat Drive, which included more than thirty stops countywide. The Sheriff’s Office distributed 4,000 winter jackets during the month of November. All jackets were purchased by the Worcester County Reserve Deputy Sheriff’s Association, a nonprofit that raises funds year-round to support the coat drive and other community-focused programs.
“The Sheriff’s Annual Winter Coat Drive makes an incredible difference for the vulnerable communities we support, from children to elders,” commented Mari Gonzalez, Executive Director of El Buen Samaritano. “These coats ensure our neighbors stay warm and protected without having to sacrifice other essential needs. This partnership truly strengthens our mission.”
“Handing out these coats each year is truly a joy,” said Sheriff Evangelidis. “They represent far more than a warm layer for winter. They reflect a community and law enforcement organization that cares. The individuals who receive these jackets are always grateful, and this drive gives our department a special opportunity to connect with the communities we serve.”
This year’s initiative was made possible thanks to the generosity of many community partners, including Saint Francis Community Health Care, The Gun Parlor, Mercadante Funeral Home, Cliff & Susan Rucker Foundation, The Krock Family & Commerce Associates, CareOne at Millbury, The Overlook, Diamond Auto Group, KAL Construction & Remodeling, Chop Chop Convenience, Falcone Enterprises, NEPBA Local 550 Worcester County Correction Officers, Pat’s Service Center, Quality Companies, Rockland Trust Bank, and Pam Massad in memory of ‘Duddie’ and Bette Massad, along with numerous additional supporters.
“The level of support we receive each year is remarkable,” added Sheriff Evangelidis. “Every contribution directly helps make our communities stronger and safer.”
Beyond their stops in Worcester, Sheriff Evangelidis and his team delivered coats to nonprofits in both Southern and Northern Worcester County, ensuring residents across the region have access to warm winter apparel as the cold weather approaches.
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The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office delivers coats to Worcester’s Abby’s House.
