NEW CITY, NY – As colder temperatures close their grip on Rockland, dozens of warm winter coats will be available to our neighbors thanks to a successful coatdrive sponsored by Rockland County Legislature Vice Chairwoman Aney Paul in partnership with TOUCH – Together Our Unity Can Heal.
“Many of our neighbors face difficult struggles and could use our support during their challenging times,” Legislator Paul said. “A warm coat to wear during the cold winter months is one way we can help. It not only protects a person from the elements, but it’s a tangible expression of our love for our neighbors.”
TOUCH (Together Our Unity Can Heal) is a community-based public health organization that provides compassionate and effective services to our neighbors in the Hudson Valley. It is the lead agency for Rockland Community Against Hunger, and along with its partners, distributed food for more than 1 million meals throughout Rockland County in 2023. TOUCH has been a Ryan White AIDS Service Organization for more than 30 years. The organization, whose work leads to healthier individuals and stronger communities, will handle the distribution of the coats, as well as the hats, gloves, sweaters and other clothing that was donated.
“This show of support is very much appreciated, and I know it will make a difference to our clients who need warm coats and clothing,” TOUCH Executive Director Julian Palmer said. “I want to thank everyone who took the time to donate and help their Rockland County neighbors.”
With the exception of 2020, Legislator Paul has sponsored a Winter CoatDrive annually since 2015, partnering with local social services agencies assisting Rockland County residents, including Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland, Helping Hands of Rockland, People to People, the Center for Safety & Change, and for the second consecutive year, TOUCH.
“I hope everyone knows that no matter the amount of your donation, your generosity is greatly appreciated, and I thank all who contributed,” Legislator Paul said.
This event brings together skilled volunteer Repair Coaches and residents seeking to repair household items. Participants are invited to bring items such as lamps, clothing, small appliances, wooden items, small furniture, toys, and electronics for evaluation and repair.
Items powered by gas engines (e.g., lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other gas-powered landscaping equipment) are not eligible for repair. Additionally, computers and digital devices will not be repaired at this event.
Repair Coaches will evaluate and fix items for free, provided the necessary materials are on hand. These talented volunteers are eager to share their expertise, preserving the art of repair while fostering community connections.
“The ability to fix and repair items is becoming a lost art,” said County Executive Ed Day. “The Repair Café not only celebrates this essential skill but also encourages its transfer to the younger generation, ensuring these talents continue to thrive in Rockland County. Events like this reduce landfill waste, foster sustainability, and strengthen our community ties.”
The Rockland Repair Café is a free, youth-friendly event made possible through the support of Rockland Conservation & Service Corps, a program of the Rockland County Youth Bureau, along with Rockland Green, Pearl River United Methodist Church, and the Pearl River Library. Volunteer Repair Coaches from Woodcraft & Willow and IBEW LU 363 will also participate.
For more information, or to confirm if a Repair Coach can fix your item, please call Kathy Galione at (845) 364-2932, or email [email protected].
When: Saturday, November 23rd, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Where: Pearl River United Methodist Church, 130 Franklin Avenue, Pearl River, NY
George Hoehmann, Town Supervisor Clarkstown has provided an update as of 11:45AM, Sunday November 17th on the brush fire in Rockland Lake State Park along the Hudson River. Numerous fire departments are on scene including Rockland Lake, Congers Fire Department, Valley Cottage Fire Department 22, Nyack, Piermont Fire Department as well as the Clarkstown Police Department battling the blaze. The location of the fire is difficult to access water is being supplied by fireboats from the river and I am informed that the fire is being contained. The photo from the police drone unit demonstrate the area affected. We will post updates as the situation evolves.