Winter Coat Drive brings warmth to DMV families

Contributed by NWFCU

Northwest Federal Credit Union (Northwest) completed its Winter Coat Drive at the credit union’s Herndon branch. The drive was hosted in partnership with Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil and his wife Seli to support local families in need of warm outerwear this season. The event resulted in the collection of 178 winter coats.

Commanders fans and Northwest members were invited to donate new and gently used winter coats of all sizes. The coats will be distributed throughout the DMV by the NWFCU Foundation to community members who might otherwise go without reliable cold-weather gear.

“Collecting 178 coats on one of the coldest days of the year is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together,” said Taralyn Kohler, VP and Director of the NWFCU Foundation. “At a time when warmth is needed most, the generosity of our members, partners, and Commanders fans truly shows the power of collaboration.”

Throughout the morning, attendees had the opportunity to meet Mike and Seli, drop off donations, and learn more about how Northwest and its Foundation support local nonprofits and families year-round.

Mike and Seli’s inspiration for the drive grew out of personal experience during the winter season. “While we were driving, we saw a child walking outside without a jacket during the cold winter season,” said Seli Sainristil. “That’s when the idea sparked that there are probably many people, especially young children, who are in need, and we have the platform to do something about it.”

More than 275 members and fans attended the Winter Coat Drive with bags and boxes of coats, contributing to a strong turnout that will translate into meaningful relief. “A little help goes a long way,” Mike Sainristil said. “If there’s anything you can do for someone else, no matter how big or small, it can make a big impact.”