City Coat Drive Extended Due to Low Donations

Medford's annual coat drive for homeless veterans has been extended until November 17, due to higher demand and lower-than-expected donations, according to Marlene Aborn, Senior Clerk of Veterans Services.

At the beginning of the year, Aborn had 12 or 13 cases, but the economic decline and resulting unemployment rates have contributed to an increase in the need for service for area veterans, she said. She now has 40 cases, including both individuals and families in Medford who are receiving some type of assistance from Medford Veterans Services.

"No one is more deserving than the veteran that has put their life on the line to make sure that we have freedoms, including the freedom to donate to whatever charity we want," Aborn said.

The office is looking for gently worn adult coats, jackets, scarves, mittens, hats, boots, warm sweaters, and thermal clothing. Drop box are available at Rep. Paul Donato's office, the police station, several locations at city hall, the library, the Council on Aging, and the Medford chamber of commerce at one Shipyard Way.

The office's goal  is to surpass the 7 year-drives record of 3,000 pieces, Aborn said.  The New England Center for Homeless Veterans on Court Street in Boston - the nearest homeless veterans shelter to Medford - will be the recipient of the coats according to Aborn. It's also where Medford homeless veterans reside until they found housing.

Medford Veteran Services also provides health and financial benefits under Massachusetts General law Chapter 115 based on income eligibility to honorably discharged veterans, their widows and dependents.  They also send care packages and have an "Adopt a Vet" program in December, during which donors are matched with a holiday wish list from a local homeless veteran.

Those wishing to donate can visit a drop box or can contact Marlene Aborn at 617-393-2503 to learn more about other ways to help.