According to a press release from the City of Beacon, Mayor Lee Kyriacou announced that the City of Beacon – as a result of an anonymous donation – is distributing over $1,000 in Key Food Gift Cards by way of various local non-profit groups and the Beacon City School District.

The gift cards, issued at Beacon’s Key Food grocery store, will be redistributed to local families going through financial difficulties during the current health crisis and economic downturn. The city was able to provide gift cards to local religious institutions, non-profit groups and the Beacon City School District.

Mayor Lee Kyriacou said, “From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the generous Beacon resident who sought anonymously to help others during these unpredictable economic times. Many families are in need of this donation and I am happy that the City of Beacon could assist.”

Pastor John Perez from the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, whose church is located on North Cedar Street, said: “In these difficult times, it is truly a blessing for those in need.”

For those who need to visit a Food Pantry, find a guide at A Little Beacon Blog’s Food Pantry Guide.

Jordan Garrand and Bryn Morgan organizing some of last year's donations

With the fall chill in the air, many people are pulling out warm coats for the season and perhaps even buying new ones. Others in the community, however, don't have the resources to keep their families warm this winter, and they need help from friends, neighbors, and community members.

The Dutchess Outreach Susan DeKeukelaere Annual Coat Drive, sponsored by Guardian Self Storage, has been collecting and distributing thousands of gently used coats to people in need for the past two decades, and the need is ever-growing. Last year, the drive collected over 8,000 coats and still had to turn people away!

This year, make a huge difference in someone's life simply by donating an extra coat. Did your child outgrow last year's parka? Donate it! How about that ski jacket you don't need anymore? You'll appreciate the extra space in your closet, and you'll keep someone warm all winter. All clean coats in good condition are welcome, though the need is greatest for adult plus sizes and children's coats.

The drive is going on through October 31, and there several convenient collection places. The closest Guardian Self Storage to Beacon is located at 1078 Route 9 in Fishkill. You can also drop off donations at All Sport Health and Fitness, located at 17 Old Main St. in Fishkill, and at several local schools. For more information, contact Judy Motter at jmotter@guardianselfstorage.com.

Click HERE to view our Coat Drive Directory.