Published November 1 2013
Bellevue Youth Link needs your help in collecting new and gently used coats -- as well as books for youth, teens and adults in our community.
Last year, the Kids Care Coat Drive collected and distributed more than 3,500 coats for Bellevue families in need, and the need may be even greater this year. In addition to new and gently used coats, books are also being collected this year to help local residents have more access to books.
Bellevue Youth Link is a partnership of the City of Bellevue and Bellevue Public Schools, providing teens with opportunities to have an active voice and make a positive difference in the community.
Coat and book donations can be dropped off through Monday, Jan. 6, at City Hall, Crossroads Mall Mini City Hall, all community centers and the following schools: Bellevue High, Newport High, Sammamish High, Interlake High, International School and Big Picture School.
Volunteers are also needed to help sort and distribute the donations. For information about other donation locations or volunteering, contact Patrick Alina, Youth Link program coordinator at palina@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-5254.
Donated coats and books will be distributed on Jan. 7, 4 to 8 p.m. at Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St., while supplies last.
For information about the coat and book distribution event, contact Vicki Drake, community services supervisor at vdrake@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-4874.
The coat drive is supported by Bellevue Plato's Closet, Bel-Red Self Storage and the Bellevue Home Depot. The book drive is part of a student project at International School in partnership with Eastside Pathways and "Be the Bridge," a project that connects students with books.