Operation Warm Brings Joy and Coats to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex

On Thursday, November 13, 2025, the gymnasium at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex was filled with excitement as Operation Warm distributed 450 brand-new coats to students, ensuring they would stay warm during the winter months. The event reflected a heartwarming effort to support local children and provide basic needs during a challenging season.

The distribution was sponsored by Allstate Insurance Agent Marc A. Ludwig of Northfield, NJ, and Ludwig Financial Group, demonstrating a strong commitment to the community. The initiative brought together students, staff, and volunteers to celebrate the generosity and care of local partners.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. La'Quetta S. Small expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that the act of kindness ensured students were warm, supported, and ready to learn. She also commended administrators, teachers, and school staff for their coordination and dedication, which helped make the distribution a success and highlighted the district’s commitment to caring for the whole child.

Principal Jodi Burroughs said the students were overjoyed by the gifts. She emphasized that the initiative helped parents during a time when costs for food, clothing, and essentials were rising, and praised community partners for their support and collaboration.

Heather Connolly, Vice President of Partnerships for Operation Warm, highlighted the organization’s mission to provide warmth, confidence, and hope. She explained that the program connects under-resourced children with what they need to thrive, ensuring every student left with a brand-new coat.

The gymnasium buzzed with anticipation as students entered class by class. Tables were arranged with coats in all sizes and a variety of vibrant colors, allowing children to select their favorite and make the experience personal and exciting.

After choosing their coats, students visited the Allstate table to personalize their jackets by writing their names inside, transforming each gift into a token of care and support. This simple act created a lasting memory and reinforced the message of community involvement.

Amy Vanrell, Director of Operations for Ludwig Financial Group, highlighted the organization’s long-term dedication to service. Over the past nine years, the Allstate Foundation and Ludwig Financial Group had donated over $100,000 and served more than 7,500 students in the Atlantic City school district, ensuring that every child had a warm coat for cold days.

Beyond the physical gift of coats, the program imparted confidence, comfort, and hope to students. The combination of generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers created an experience that extended far beyond the gymnasium.

Thanks to Operation Warm and its partners, hundreds of students left the event prepared for the winter months, carrying with them not only warm coats but also the joy of knowing their community cared deeply about their well-being.

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Photo Credit: Atlantic City Public Schools