Federal Way police teamed up with South King Fire and Rescue to deliver winter coats for children at Olympic View Elementary School.
This marks the departments’ first year of participation in Operation Warm. On Nov. 13, firefighters and police officers brought 200 new coats for Olympic View students in grades three, four and five. An additional 58 coats were donated for the school to keep on hand, just in case a student needs one.
Ryan Herrera, president of IAFF Local 2024, said he has applied for grants in hopes of a larger donation next year. The goal is to provide coats for one entire school in Federal Way — and then some.
Paul Marquardt, principal at Olympic View Elementary, said the school needs these coats. Students often come to school without warm clothing, such as coats and sweatshirts.
Olympic View Elementary has one of the highest poverty rates in the district. Nearly 88 percent of the school’s 420 students qualify for free or reduced lunch. In comparison, about 56 percent of students in the entire school district qualify for free and reduced lunch.
Marquardt also appreciated Wednesday’s donation because it gave students a chance to interact with police and firefighters in a positive setting.
To learn more about Operation Warm or donate, visit operationwarm.org/southkingcounty.
Click here to see more photos from the Nov. 13 donation at Olympic View Elementary.
