Coats And Blankets Bring More Than Warmth, Volunteers Say

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Since its inception in 2004, Project Warmth has distributed more than 18,000 coats and blankets. Volunteers who have helped hand them out say a simple donation can make a huge difference. 

With Oklahoma's recent cold weather, the need for donated coats and blankets is evident, volunteers say.

"There is a need right now for donations of money and blankets and food because the economy is so bad, and there are so many people out of work," said Doug Anthamatten with Holy Joe's Outreach.

"We make sure that they have coats and blankets and food and some fellowship," said Jennifer Anthamatten, also of Holy Joe's.

Donations can be dropped off at area LaMode Cleaners, Western Sun Federal Credit Unions, Mathis Brother Furniture and Ferguson Superstore.

The coats and blankets are then given out to the needy by groups like Holy Joe's Outreach. Its members spend most of their Friday nights seeking out the homeless and clothing them with contributions.

"I think the reward is seeing these people become human again," Jennifer said. "They've been so cast out by society that they don't even feel like people anymore."

"We get to know these people. After six years of being out here doing this, it's almost an extended family," Doug said.

Unfortunately, the Anthamattens expect that extended family to get bigger this year. But they say a simple donation can put someone on the road to recovery.

"We see them really get themselves back together, get back on their feet, and be living in a home somewhere," said Jennifer Anthamatten, a volunteer with Holy Joe's Outreach.

"Maybe get their family back together. It's a wonderful thing."

Find Donation Locations For Project Warmth