Fallon Cares Community Coat Drive Returns for Third Year

The Fallon Cares Community Coat Drive, founded and operated by resident Sarah Lavy, is back in its third year, continuing the mission to keep families in Fallon warm throughout the winter. Each year, the drive provides between 200 and 300 coats, with at least 100 specifically for children. While the primary focus is on coats, the drive also offers warm blankets, hats, scarves, gloves, and other winter clothing to help families get through the cold months.

The coat drive was born from a simple idea. “One day in a local moms group, someone asked if there would be a coat drive this year,” Lavy recalls. “When someone said there wasn’t, I suggested maybe I could start one. And so I did.”

Lavy usually spends about three months organizing the coat drive but was only able to devote two months to preparation due to health issues. As a result, the drive is a little lower on donations than in past years. Despite these challenges, she feels blessed to serve her community.

“I feel that it is an honor and a blessing to serve,” Lavy said. “This drive is my way of leaving a legacy of love for those who may be less seen or heard in our community. I hope to raise awareness of these needs and connect people who want to help with those who need it most.”

The coat drive holds special meaning for Lavy as she received coats through a coat drive many times as a child. She credits her inspiration and guidance to Lana Scharmann, founder and operator of JustServe, who has served as a mentor. Scharmann’s experience in working with charities helped Lavy navigate the challenges of organizing a community-driven project and ensure its ongoing success.

Community support has been essential to the drive’s success. The LDS Church provides facilities, helps create and distribute flyers, and brings volunteers – including missionaries and Boy Scouts – to help set up and organize donations. Local businesses have also been vital partners in providing drop-off locations in the community. The Dairy Farmers of America provided the collection barrels, and drop-off locations have included Century 21, the Fallon Chamber of Commerce, WaFd Bank, and this year the Working Class Tattoo. Additionally, Jeff’s Digitex supports the drive by printing flyers and donating a storage shed.

The last day to donate coats is Wednesday, Oct. 30. The Fallon Cares Community Coat Drive event will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the LDS Church, 750 W. Richards Street.

Thanks to the continued generosity of the Fallon community, the Fallon Cares Community Coat Drive remains a dependable resource for families in need, ensuring that everyone can face the winter months warm and cared for.