Submitted by the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys (Ohio) Chapter

Members of the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys (Ohio) Chapter toured the facility of the nonprofit Youngstown Blue Coats in late June. During the visit, the chapter also presented a $3,800 MOAA Charities Community Outreach Grant to supply cold-weather clothing and outdoor survival items for the coming winter. 

June might not be the month to think about cold weather, but Blue Coats Vice President and interim Treasurer Roseann Panning explained that purchasing items is a year-round task.

“MOAA’s grant will go a long way getting us ready for this winter,” she said.

[RELATED: 52 Affiliates Receive Grants From MOAA Charities]

While Blue Coats often receives clothing from local retailers, it must also purchase new items to meet specific needs, such as boots, which must be properly sized and fitted. 

The chapter is no stranger to partnering with Blue Coats. The chapter delivered its first Community Outreach Grant of $2,500 in 2025 and supported the group in 2023 and 2024 through chapter fundraising.

Taking the chapter’s support to the next level was the brainchild of chapter Vice President and Director of Grants Maj. Joseph Mersol, USA (Ret).

“The MOAA grant is beyond generous,” he said. “But equally vital is teaming with the Blue Coats at community awareness and fundraising events and veteran stand-downs throughout the year. We will back up the dollars with hands-on assistance.”

Blue Coats also offers opportunities to provide direct outreach to homeless individuals and veterans at remote encampments in the local area.