Linda Gibson
Founder of House of Ruth
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the House of Ruth’s 5th Annual New Coat Drive for Kids. We are grateful not only to those who donated, but also to those who had the desire to give but were unable to—your encouraging words and thoughtfulness meant so much throughout this year’s drive.
This year’s winter coat drive came with many uncertainties due to the government shutdown. Still, our community came together and helped make this year’s drive a success. In 2025, we donated 218 new winter coats, along with hats and gloves, to five USD 475 elementary schools. In addition, all spring jackets were donated to the Konza Prairie Community Health Clinic Closet and the New Church of the Living God’s Shop for Free Program.
This year’s recipient schools were:
- Eisenhower Elementary School
- Spring Valley Elementary School
- Ware Elementary School
- Washington Elementary School
- Westwood Elementary School
Since our first winter coat drive in 2021, the House of Ruth and the Junction City community have donated a total of 1,068 new coats to local elementary schools.
We extend our sincere appreciation to each school’s principal and staff for their dedication to educating and supporting the children in our community.
Thank you again for making a difference!
*Below are more photos from the Coat Drive.
