Free winter coats were blessings made of wool, corduroy, nylon and flannel that surely will warm more than a hundred babies, tots and teens whose families attended “Coats for Kids, sponsored Sept. 10 at the Milford Oval by River of Life Church in Amherst.

“This is an all-volunteer event for the Milford area and for anyone struggling in this economy,” said Pastor Darrell VanWagner. “It’s one way we get to share the love of God with our community.”

The giveaway of 131 new coats, purchased and donated, fulfilled a tradition of more than 20 years. The garments were accessorized with more than 70 knitted hats, gloves, mittens and crocheted baby booties. Families and caregivers came from Milford and elsewhere for the event and its accoutrements – face painting, games, hot popcorn and free grilled burgers and hot dogs.

Alex Humber, an experienced organizer of the annual event, was among those welcoming arrivals.

“There really is nothing better than seeing joy on the faces of the children who received a new jacket,” Humber said. “It’s the best – it’s what it’s all about.”

More than 30 volunteers assisted attendees. Chilled bottles of water were stocked and restocked in coolers. Paint artist Nicole Litton, of Milford, added purple to the colors of a butterfly painted upon the cheeks of Olivia Duckworth, age 7, of Milford. Nearby, Jackson VanWagner, age 6, skillfully flipped five plastic paddles in a Nerf Target Challenge game.

Others in the crowd made their way to the food tent where vittles were dispensed by volunteers Ricky Debernardo, Brilee Debernardo, Steven Giusti and Kimberly Giusti, all of Milford. Meanwhile, the Biron Family of parents Sarah and Chris strolled through the goings-on with their kids – Aubrey, age 7, Quinten, 5, and baby Lincoln, capping a fine afternoon.

River of Life Church members meet at the church, Route 101A in Amherst. More information is available online: rolnh.com. Calls also are welcome: 603-672-1225.