The 36th Kiwanis Club of Lake Charles Coats for Kids drive was extra “spooktacular” and successful.

For over three decades, the club has collected donations of new or lightly used winter coats every fall to distribute to those in need. Three thousand coats have been delivered to charitable organizations this year as a result of the efforts.

The club began partnering with Crying Eagle Brewing Company eight years ago to make the coat drive a fundraiser, as well, each year hosting the “Kiwanis Club Spooktacular” complete with family-friendly activities, music and raffles, said Lyle Van Horn, who is president of Kiwanis Club of Lake Charles.

Alongside coat collections, the money raised is donated to 10 charitable, local organizations that emphasize community betterment for the unhoused and impoverished: Abraham’s Tent, Boys Village Foundation, CARC, Care Help of Sulphur, CPSB McKinney-Vento Center for Homeless Children, DeWanna’s Community Closet, ETC Harbour House, Oasis Women’s Shelter, Potter’s House and The Lord’s Place.

$42,500 was raised through sponsors and various fundraising events that have been held throughout the year, meaning each organization was gifted $4,250.

The club celebrated with the organizations and sponsors with a lunch of fried catfish, mac and cheese and cheesecake at the Villages at Imperial Pointe on Tuesday, December 17.

Sara Judson, president and CEO, Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, noted before the checks were handed out that the members of the 10 organizations were the harbingers of tangible change in the region.

“They are the boots on the ground to make their mission become reality, and it all benefits our whole region of Southwest Louisiana.”

The CPSB McKinney-Vento Center for Homeless Children Organization provides clothing, school supplies and other materials for Calcasieu Parish students. Coordinator Johnethia Bellard said financial support ensures they are able to put supplies in students’ hands.

“We appreciate you all because it helps make our programs right.”

The Rev. Leona Benoit, who heads Potter’s House, has witnessed the many ways the coat collection and fundraising efforts help organizations (and those in need.) She needed a size five coat for a young girl at her facilities. The club was able to acquire one through donations.

“I want you to know she loved that coat you found.”

The Potter’s House has been in operation for 36 years and relies on donations to operate.

“This money will go to good use,” she said. “We’re not state government-funded, and God has taken care of us for 36 years, and you are all a part of those 36 years.”

“4,250 times, thank you,” expressed Nathan Paul Bray, executive director of Boys Village Foundation.