Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation Donates 600 Winter Coats to Clients in Need

Just as the brisk winter weather rolled in this season, the Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation generously donated 600 brand new winter jackets to be distributed to residents at Catholic Charities Boston’s five shelters, with the remainder going to clients in need at Catholic Charities North in Lynn.  

This massive act of kindness stemmed from Steven Forss, a parishioner at Saint Cecilia Parish in Back Bay, and David Sarlitto, Executive Director of the Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation, who teamed up to determine how to best provide new, high-quality winter jackets to families — of all backgrounds and faiths — in need. Knowing St. Cecilia’s longstanding partnership with Catholic Charities Boston, Mark Lippolt, who leads the Homelessness and Hunger Ministry at the parish, promptly connected Steven to Catholic Charities Boston to coordinate the in-kind donation.  

“The relationship between St. Cecilia’s Parish and Catholic Charities has grown phenomenally over the past 15 years and that is largely because the staff have always engaged us in their mission,” Mark said. “We are so grateful for their welcoming nature and their willingness to share and educate.” 

Within a few short weeks, 600 brand-new winter coats, in a wide range of sizes and colors, were delivered to Catholic Charities Boston’s Yawkey Center to be distributed to adults and children across the agency. 

“Receiving an in-kind donation of this magnitude is truly rare, so being able to provide each of our shelter residents with a new, high-quality coat had an incredibly meaningful impact,” said Alicia Ridenour, Senior Director of Volunteer Programs at Catholic Charities Boston. “These coats not only provide warmth but also a sense of dignity and comfort for the individuals and families we serve.”  

Above all, Steven said he is grateful for the opportunity to partner with organizations like Catholic Charites Boston in his community and to help those in need experience a sense of security and joy this Christmas season.  

“I’m so often reminded how life is so challenging without basic needs getting met,” said Steven. “A warm coat in a New England winter offers warmth and hope for a better tomorrow.” 

To learn more about how you can support Catholic Charities Boston’s clients most in need, visit our Ways to Give page here.