Baldwin EMC is excited to announce a new component of its annual Power of Giving campaign this year. From Nov. 1 through Dec. 1, the cooperative is hosting a children’s coat drive to fill the need of younger members of our community who may not have a coat or jacket for the winter season.

“Traditionally, we have accepted non-perishable food, which we donate to local food pantries, as part of our Power of Giving blood drive event,” said Baldwin EMC Vice President of Energy Services and Public Relations Mark Ingram. “In the spirit of giving, we decided to expand this year by asking the community to also consider donating new or gently used children’s coats to the cause. This is just one more way we can help serve those in need.”

The co-op will host the 11th annual Power of Giving blood and non-perishable food drive at the Baldwin EMC headquarters in Summerdale on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016. However, coats are currently being accepted and can be dropped off at any Baldwin EMC office (Summerdale, Bay Minette or Orange Beach) during normal business hours from now until the day of the event.

“Whether you can give blood, non-perishable food, a coat for a child, or all of the above, we hope to see a huge turnout from our community this year,” Ingram said. “That generosity can change, or even save, a life this holiday season.”

On the day of the event, staff members from LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will be set up in Baldwin EMC’s Training Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to take blood donations. In order to give blood, you must be in good health, 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and show a valid photo I.D.

New or gently used children’s coats and non-perishable food will also be accepted. All blood donors will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a $100 Visa gift card or an electric grill.