LEWISTOWN – Jeff and Megan Eby want to give the gift of warmth to those less fortunate in the Juniata Valley.
The Lewistown couple started a clothing drive in memory of their son Waylon, who was stillborn. In the third year “Winter coats by Waylon” has provided hundreds of children with coats for colder weather.
“It just happened,” Megan remembered. “His death made us think of something to heal our hearts, especially those of the children. We tried to collect some coats and distribute them.”
The Ebys set up a stand at the Festival of Ice and were surprised by the response. In the end, they handed out about 75 coats.
“It went really well,” Said Megan. “We didn’t really know what to expect.”
Donations in the second year increased even more, as “Winter coats by Waylon” has provided coats to over 100 needy children.
So far, coats have been distributed to children from kindergarten to fifth grade. This year, the Ebys are also collecting coats for adults in need. “It will be based on our inventory, but we are really looking forward to this year,” Megan added. “It just kept growing.”
“Winter coats by Waylon” accepts new or gently used coats at all of its drop-off locations: Lerch RV, 70 Commerce Drive, Milroy; and Junction Fire Co., 6395 Route 103 North, Lewistown.
The Ebys can also arrange donations by appointment by calling (717) 250-2490.
The Ebys began collecting the coats, but soon realized what a big commitment it was. Megan’s parents, Jim and Sheri Shehan, helped out.
“Many people don’t realize how expensive winter coats are…between $30 and $60,” Megan explained, adding that even secondhand clothing stores still charge $20 to $30 per coat.
“People who live paycheck to paycheck can’t afford it,” she added. “If we see someone wearing a coat that is too small, they come to us and exchange it. We give them one that fits. By helping someone, they are also helping us.”
In addition to collecting coats, “Winter coats by Waylon” also accepts monetary donations. They will be performing at several fall festivals including:
• Eighth Reedsville Apple Festival, Bender Park, Reedsville, September 21
• Lucky Friday, Goose Day, downtown Lewistown, September 27
• 39th Annual Big Valley Harvestfest, Mifflin County Youth Park, Reedsville, October 4 and 5
The collections have gone so well that the Ebys are considering purchasing a trailer to store all of the coats. “It would be easier to have them all in one place,” Said Megan. “We are running out of space in our house.”
They are also inquiring about buildings in Reedsville where they could be open to the public.
While they accept donations year-round, their peak season is definitely September to early December.
