After the frigid temperatures, ice and snow of recent weeks, it’s something we all can appreciate.

On January 30, the Indiana Pacers and Dick’s Sporting Goods teamed up with Pacers’ Point Guard T.J. Ford for his annual Coat Drive benefiting HealthNet’s Homeless Initiative Program (HIP).

Hundreds of families stopped by the Dick’s Sporting Goods at Castleton Square Mall on a cold, Sunday afternoon to donate new or gently used coats. In return, they received one ticket per donated coat for an upcoming Indiana Pacers game.

Fans lined up for the opportunity to meet T.J. in person, as well as Boomer and the Pacemates. They also brought something to leave behind. In less than two hours, more than 250 coats had been donated – all for homeless men, women, boys and girls.

Over 250 coats were collected and distributed for HIP clients! Thank you to all who donated!

This was the sixth year for the coat drive and it couldn’t have come at a better time, with temperatures plummeting and the wind chill near record levels. In a matter of days, the Homeless Initiative Program staff distributed the coats to grateful homeless clients around Indy.

It’s not too late to help. HIP is always in need of coats and other items, and we are grateful for any and all support in meeting the basic needs of our clients.

If you, your work colleagues, church group or volunteer organization would like to help, please use this list for ideas of other ways to host a drive of your own:

• New underwear and T-shirts
• Sweatpants and sweatshirts
• Gift Cards – anything to provide a hot meal or basic needs items
• Diapers/pull-ups/baby wipes
• Socks and shoes
• Toiletries

You can help too!!

HealthNet’s Blanket Indy with Care Campaign is over halfway completed, but we still need your help! Our goal is to raise $25,000 by February 25th.  Donate $5 and tell 5 friends because $5 x 5000 = $25,000!!  Learn more here.