Dec. 27 - Coats of Kindness

Day 361 of a year of kindness

Today was our first big snow in Rhode Island - two to three inches - so staying warm was on my mind when I stepped into Tabitha’s thrift store this morning. The store sits in the basement of the Peacedale Congregational Church, where I volunteer once or twice a month. I was so excited to see this rack of free coats by the front door. What a tremendous kindness, especially on a day like today.

I brought clothes that I don’t wear or don’t need and added them to the racks. It’s so satisfying to sell someone my unloved sweater for $3 - that they will love - and know all of the proceeds feed families. After so many years in Florida, I don’t have many coats to add, but I’m going to ask my friends and family if they have extra to donate. I think having a free rack of coats is a profoundly kind offering and I hope more churches and communities do the same.

Science of Kindness: Research reveals that visible acts of generosity from institutions - like churches - increase trust, belonging and social cohesion. A free coat rack signals that people matter, and they deserve to be warm and safe.#BeKind #KindnessCounts #KindnessCounts2025 #kindness #kindnesseffect #kindnessmatters #FreeCoats #peacedalecongregatonalchurch