The bright pops of orange and yellow leaves around Denver are a sign the cold winter months are just before us. Luckily for Denver Rescue Mission, we were blessed to partner with United Healthcare and Denver Broncos offensive guard Dalton Risner to bring warmth to our STAR Transitional and New Life Program participants through a coat giveaway at The Crossing.
Excitement and laughter filled the air as children, women and men in our programs lined up to receive their colorful purple, pink, green and blue winter coats at the event. One by one they each picked out their perfect winter gear with smiles on their faces.
“Without these donations, many of our program participants would be struggling this winter, so this is truly a blessing and a gift,” Jessica Winslow, Denver Rescue Mission Senior Director of Residential Programs, shared.
The joy on so many families’ faces truly came to life through this event. Having a nice and warm coat during the winter months in Denver provides comfort and hope to these individuals.
“I’m so grateful, it’s just amazing to see people care. They even let me get a coat for my 14-year-old daughter, which almost brought tears to my eyes,” New Life Program participant Eric, was happy to share. We were extremely fortunate to have Dalton Risner be a part of the event— as he is not only a favorite Broncos player among our participants, but also a passionate and regular Mission volunteer.
“Working with places and organizations is very near and dear to my heart because I was once in that situation,” Risner shared with the participants before they received their coats.
We are beyond grateful to United Healthcare’s entire team, including their CEO Patrick Gordon, who made this event possible through a $10,000 donation for the coats. And, to Dalton Risner for being a constant supporter of the Mission.
It is incredible to see how we can make an impact on our community when we work together.
To our participants these are more than just coats— they are a symbol of hope and a comfort for a warm winter ahead. Thank you, United Healthcare, for helping us provide this hope.
Written by: Sierra Murdoch, PR and Events Intern
