St. John United Church of Christ continues 36-year tradition of providing winter coats to local children

[October 09, 2026]  LINCOLN, Ill. – For 36 years, St. John United Church of Christ has helped keep local children warm through a longstanding partnership with Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (CAPCIL). This year, that tradition continues with the donation of 354 new winter coats to be distributed to children throughout the community.

Since the coat program began, St. John United Church of Christ has donated more than 6,000 coats to local children. The program is made possible through the generosity of church members and supporters, including individual donations, special offering collections and contributions from the church. Those funds are then stretched as far as possible by purchasing new coats when they are on sale.

CAPCIL Chief Visionary Officer Breann Titus attended the church’s annual coat dedication on Sunday, September 20. Titus has been involved with the partnership since joining CAPCIL in 2016 and has seen firsthand the impact the program continues to have year after year.

“This program is an amazing blessing to the children in our community,” said Titus. “For 36 years, St. John United Church of Christ has continued to show up for local families and make sure children have access to a warm winter coat. We are incredibly grateful for their generosity, dedication and continued partnership with CAPCIL.”

Following the annual dedication, the 354 coats were donated to CAPCIL, where they will be made available directly to families in the community.


Coat Distribution Information


Coats will be available beginning Tuesday, October 13, 2026, after 9:00 a.m. at:

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois
1800 5th Street
Lincoln, IL
 

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Coats are available while supplies last and on a first-come, first-served basis. Sizes and quantities are limited, and coats cannot be held or reserved.

Families are encouraged to follow CAPCIL on Facebook for the most current information and updates regarding coat availability.

About Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (CAPCIL) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people and changing lives throughout Central Illinois. Through partnerships, programs and community support, CAPCIL works to strengthen individuals and families and create opportunities for greater stability and self-sufficiency.


 

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