The holiday season at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in Hamilton, New Jersey, begins with an act of generosity that truly touches the community. The Ladies Philoptochos Society has launched this year’s Giving Tree Kid Coat Drive, part of their ongoing Operation Classroom outreach, which helps schools and students in need.
This year’s project is led by parishioner Ann Manousos and supports Nicole Amaya, a kindergarten teacher at Crosby Copley Elementary School in the Trenton Public School District. Many families at the school are facing difficult circumstances as winter approaches, and teachers identified 33 students in grades K through 3 who need warm winter coats. The deadline to participate is December 5.
A small Giving Tree has been set up next to the church office with numbered ornaments. Each ornament lists a child’s initials, gender, and coat size. Parishioners are invited to choose an ornament, sign their name on the sheet next to the matching number, and purchase a new winter coat for that student.
Coats can be dropped off at the church office or placed in the collection box at Killarney’s Publick House in Hamilton. The process is simple, and every coat will go directly to a child who needs it.
The goal is straightforward: help students arrive at school warm, comfortable, and ready to learn. A proper coat can make the cold morning walk safer and recess more enjoyable, and it gives a child the confidence of showing up prepared.
For more information, parishioners may contact Ann Manousos at 856-313-9933 or annmanousos@gmail.com.
As St. George begins the Christmas season, the community is once again choosing to support children who need it most.
Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending, as dates, times, locations, and registration information may change.