There are many ways that 2008 will be remembered by our country.  Economically, it was a horrible year.  Many families lost homes and jobs.  In many ways, the success of the Coats for Kids Foundation mirrors that reality.   Never before have we experienced a year like the one just ended.   We have many highlights because of the generosity of hundreds of individuals, the tremendous support of the Combined Federal Campaign, the persistence and faith of many who worked to provide new coats to all the kids at Ball High School in Galveston.

Here are the numbers:

• Total coats delivered:             10,619
• Total recipient organizations:  65
• Total states shipped:               17 plus the District of Columbia
• Total contributions:                  $118,000
• 43% of all coats delivered (4558) were distributed in the DC metro region

Coats for Kids is but a vehicle for the generosity of thousands of people to reach out to those less fortunate to say "we care".   We are humbled by that fact.

Now, a new year is here.  The work begins anew.  Outreach to schools intensifies.  A new budget is prepared and a work plan for 2009 put in place.   We cannot and will not rest on past accomplishments for one very simple reason--kids are coming to school without a winter coat.

Most people make their contributions before the holidays, and that is very much appreciated.  Our task now with three more months of winter ahead in many areas is to explore new, creative ways to gain financial support earlier.   We realize, however, that this support must be earned by action.  That is what we intend to do!