Coats donated for needy children

Kellie Reep, president of the organization holds new coats donated to needy children in Rutherford County through the Salvation Army's Christmas Cheer Center.

Several needy children in Rutherford County received new coats for Christmas through the work of several partners, including the NCInstitute of Transportation Engineers, (NCSite) partnering with Transforming a Life and the Salvation Army Christmas Cheer Center in Rutherford County.

Described as, "A very warm hearted generous organization," Lisa Barrett of Rutherfordton said Transforming a Life was begun by Zaki Mustafa and his wife when they began donating new coats for the needy, such as the children listed on the Angel Trees sponsored by the Salvation Army in Rutherford County. Coats were also donated for victims of Tropical Storm Helene and the homeless. During the Christmas season, Mustafa donated 150 coats that were distributed to Kellie Reep, President of NC Site.

Lisa Garrett and her husband Jeff, a member of the Rutherfordton Lions Club were also involved as well as all Lions Club members who helped assemble bicycles for children and bag gifts for the children.

"It's great that we have warming caring hearts that really care enough to give the time and go out and help the less fortunate. Thanks to Zaki and his wife for their generosity to make someone feel warm this winter," Lisa said.

Coats were transported to the Salvation Army and distributed for Christmas.