PrimeLending pumpkin patch coat drive

WASILLA — PrimeLending’s Wasilla branch hosted their 4th annual Pumpkin Patch Coat Drive with State Farm insurance agent Allie Hewitt to help the Mat-Su Salvation Army keep people warm this winter.

“We had a good one,” Wasilla PrimeLending production manager Ben Braendel said.

Throughout the day, locals stopped by to pick out pumpkins in exchange for a brand new coat or a $10 (or more) monetary donation. All the event proceeds and donated coats went to the Salvation Army who distributes them to local families in need, using donated funds to purchase additional coats and winter gear during the holiday season.

Mat-Su Salvation Army corps officers, Kevin and Tina Bottjen enjoyed the chance to see so many different people throughout the event Thursday, Oct. 21 outside the PrimeLending office.

“It turned into a gorgeous Alaskan fall day,” Kevin said.

Kevin said that he was encouraged by the large amount of support they received from the community this year. He said numerous people simply stopped by to drop off coats and monetary donations without even picking out from a plethora of pumpkins populating the patch off Bogard Road.

“They just wanted to support the ministry and what we’re able to do here in the Valley. That’s very indicative of the people of the Valley. They’re very giving and supportive to those of us who help those that are less fortunate,” Kevin said.

Thanked Primlending, Hewitt, and the community for coming together to make this festive fundraiser happen, making for a great way to get in the Halloween spirit while helping those in need.

“We just had to show up and smile,” Kevin said with a laugh. “They do amazing things.”

Salvation Army staff and volunteers will sort through all the donated coats and other winter items such as hats, socks, scarves, gloves, and snowsuits. Tina said they’re hoping to have all the donated materials ready for distribution by Thanksgiving.

Tina said their overall efforts are coming along well as they gear up for the holiday season. She said they’re currently seeking any groups interested in hosting local families as well as any local businesses who would like to facilitate a red kettle with a bell ringer.

Kevin said they’re continuing their warming center program at the main office in Palmer. While the exact date hasn’t been confirmed, He said they’re making sure to maintain this new service to the community along with all the other programs offered year round. He said public events like the recent coat drive help them get a head start on the busiest time of the year.

“It’s fantastic. Next year is going to be number five, So, we gotta figure out what we’re gonna do, something big,” Kevin said.

For more information about the Salvation Army Mat-Su Valley Corps, visit mat-suvalley.salvationarmy.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann jacob.mann@frontiersman.com