The power of words and a picture is amazing. Thank you for running Matt Moriarty's Nov. 19 story regarding the Coalition's need for winter coats and blankets. Within 24 hours a steady stream of generous and caring residents brouoght coats and blankets by the carload to the Coalition Donation Center on West Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines.

A few days before, a young woman came to the Coalition. She was in tears because even though her husband had a good job with a heating and air-conditioning company, his hours had been cut back. She works full time taking care of an elderly woman. They have three young children, and they are struggling to pay their bills. She lowered her head and asked for help with winter coats for their children. It broke my heart when I told her we had just run out of coats.

Several churches had sponsored coat drives, and the coat room had been full in September, but with the cutbacks and rising cost of living, the Coalition had seen 35-40 families a day, and all the coats had been given away.

Now, thanks to your article and picture, and the compassion of so many Moore County residents, the coat and blanket room at the Coalition is being restocked, and we will be able to help the children and adults in Moore County who struggle to provide their families with basic human needs.

Thank you to the many nice people who went through their closets to share their gently used coats and blankets and also to those who bought new coats and blankets for their Moore County neighbors in need. Your gifts are very much appreciated and remind me why I think Moore County is such a special place to live.

Caroline Eddy

Southern Pines