Community generosity results in successful coat drive

NORTHBROOK – The generosity of Lake County residents once again was on full display for the Coats for Vets collection drive hosted by Libertyville Sunrise Rotary and Zengeler Cleaners.

The service organization and local cleaner teamed up to collect 8,192 items, including coats, jackets, scarves, gloves and other winter clothing, all in support of local veterans.

“The Lake County community rose to the occasion to send our vets a clear message of appreciation and respect for providing the freedoms we enjoy,” Tom Zengeler, president of Zengeler Cleaners, said in a news release. “The need for support and assistance this year has never been greater, especially with so many veterans of World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, the Middle East, along with more recent conflicts. Too many of our veterans have had a challenging transition to civilian life, making it increasingly difficult to find meaningful work in an ever-evolving employment environment. Libertyville Sunrise Rotary and Zengeler Cleaners thank the local community for their fantastic support.”

Zengeler Cleaners’ two Libertyville stores once again served as drop-off locations for the donations. After the items were collected, Zengeler Cleaners inspected, repaired as needed and cleaned every donated item.

Once the items were ready for the veterans, Zengeler Cleaners coordinated with Midwest Veterans Closet to make sure local veterans would have prompt access to the needed items.