Frank Cannella and United Way Donate Winter Wear to Burlington Flood Victims

On the evening of Thursday, October 19, 2017, United Way of Racine County hosted a “Get Out and Play” event in partnership with United Way supporter, Frank Cannella. With a true love for giving back, Cannella brought together supporters from Love, Inc.; Zumpano’s; and United Way of Racine County to create change. Cannella wants to ensure that no matter the weather, Burlington’s children can get out and play.

 

Get Out and Play is a yearly event through which Cannella has provided hundreds of Burlington-area children with free winter clothing. “I learned that children can’t go out for recess unless they have the proper winter-wear to keep them warm and dry,” said Cannella. “That became the basis for creating our ‘Get Out and Play’ event. Call it another version of ‘no child left behind.’”

 

This year, Get Out and Play had a special twist—to donate winter gear specifically to children affected by recent flooding. United Way and Love, Inc. worked together to locate nearly 110 local, school-aged children impacted by floods who needed new winter gear. Cannella sponsored the donation, which included coats, snowpants, boots, hats, gloves, mittens, and/or snowsuits.

 

“When the floods happened, we knew that we needed to adapt to help those impacted,” said Susan Sandvick, Get Out and Play coordinator and United Way investor relations manager. “Frank was generous enough to help more kids than ever before; Love Inc. worked hard to locate participants; and numerous volunteers rolled up their sleeves and helped where needed. This was truly a community event in Burlington, and I was proud to be a part of it.”

 

The selected kids and their families gathered at St. Mary’s School to receive their winter gear. Participants also enjoyed a Zumpano’s dinner, participated in crafts, and learned about local community resources for families.

 

“The flood financially and emotionally affected nearly every one of our Burlington friends, families and neighbors,” said Tina Timmons, social services director of Love, Inc. “I am so grateful and thankful that Frank Cannella and United Way partnered with the social services team at Love, Inc. in efforts to provide relief during a continuing, difficult time of recovery for many.”

 

“We’re so grateful for Cannella’s generosity and the support of all the organizations and community members who collaborated to provide for Burlington’s families,” said United Way President Rodney Prunty. “No family should have to wonder how to provide for their children’s basic needs, and this event is an inspiring example of the impact we can make when we Live United.”