For more than 15 years, an annual event in Rhode Island called “Warm Hands Warm Hearts” has ensured that hundreds of local children stay warm in the winter months. This year, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, WWLI “Lite 105” (official media partner), Petro Home Services, Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage, Chelo’s Hometown Bar & Grille, and Providence Community Health Centers teamed up to purchase and distribute coats, hats, mittens, and scarves to children in need. A record number of coats – nearly 800 – were collected for this year’s event, which took place on January 16.

Dozens of volunteers gathered at Providence Community Health Center’s Prairie Avenue health center to sort coats the night before and then guide families on the day of the event so they could receive warm clothing. Prior to the event, bilingual flyers announcing the event were distributed to community agencies with clients whose children need something warm to wear in the winter months. Thank you to the sponsors and volunteers who again made this annual event a success!