Rockwall’s “Coats for Kids” program keeps underserved elementary school students warm with Old Navy designs

The students were allowed to pick out coats in their sizes, favorite colors, and to match their personalities.

Photo by J.J. Smith / Kirte Kinser

More than 200 elementary school students were offered new coats by Old Navy through a partnership with the Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club.

ROCKWALL — Over 200 elementary school students in Rockwall have brand new coats and some happy memories this winter, thanks to a partnership between the Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club and Old Navy of Rockwall.

Rockwall ISD students and families were invited to the Old Navy store in Rockwall Nov. 10. to pick out brand new coats in their size, favorite color and personality. While Old Navy offered face painting and passed out balloons, donuts and drinks for the families, Chiloso Mexican Bistro provided breakfast tacos for students, families and volunteers.

According to Breakfast Rotary club president Juan Tomasino, their organization began its “Coats for Kids” project eight years ago by providing coats to students at Dobbs Elementary.

The program has expanded each year and now serves nine different elementary schools. This was the first year that Rotary partnered with Old Navy to host a distribution event at the store.

“Our club members look forward to this event every year,” said Tomasino. “When the opportunity arose to partner with Old Navy to provide the children with a true shopping experience we jumped at it.”

Dr. Debbie Smothermon, Assistant RISD Superintendent for Administrative Service,s said nothing is more rewarding than knowing that you have given a gift that is really needed.

“On behalf of Rockwall ISD, we greatly appreciate the support to our students given by Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club and Old Navy. You made lots of children and parents smile today,” she said.

Additional support was provided by the Rockwall Preschool Association and the Rockwall Rotary Club.

To find out how you can help with next year’s event, please contact Tomasino at 214-226-7792.