LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. —Teaming again with the Libertyville Sunrise Rotary, Zengeler Cleaners is accepting winter coats, jackets and other seasonal apparel for veterans throughout the northern Illinois area as part of the annual “Coats for Vets” collection drive.
“This year has been particularly tough for veterans, especially those looking to find meaningful work as they transition back to civilian life,” says Tom Zengeler, president of Zengeler Cleaners. “As a result, many who protected our way of life now live below the poverty line — and that’s just not acceptable. We believe it’s our job to support them; after all, all Americans owe a huge debt to the service of our vets.”
Zengeler believes that, in many ways, the challenges for returning veterans are even greater this year. “The combination of the pandemic, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on American soil and the withdrawal from Afghanistan have compounded the impact,” he says. “Coats for Vets provides a simple yet meaningful opportunity for each of us to address some of their needs and to show our appreciation for their service.”
The collection drive also includes gloves, hats, blankets and other seasonal apparel in addition to coats and jackets. Last year’s Coats for Vets drive was successful, even at the height of the pandemic, with the drive collecting 1,742 coats valued at approximately $175,000. “With the generosity of the local community, we’re confident this year’s drive will be another huge success,” Zengeler says.
Donations will be accepted through Wednesday, Oct. 31 at Zengeler Cleaners two Libertyville stores, or at the Libertyville Sunrise Rotary Once the donations are gathered, the Zengeler team will inspect, repair as needed and clean every single item. Next, Zengeler Cleaners will deliver the renewed items to the VA Hospital in time for Veterans Day on Sunday, Nov. 11.
For more information, visit Zengeler Cleaners’ website.
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Dave Davis at [email protected].