By Kate Bartlett
Steelbound Brewery & Distillery has partnered with Colvin Cleaners in an innovative project to help keep local children warm this winter season. The collaboration features a special release “Coats 4 Kids” Winter Lager, exclusively available at the Steelbound Williamsville location. Portions of every sale supports the purchase of winter essentials for children in need.
This initiative was inspired by Managing Partner, Bill Bursee’s personal experience growing up in a family that struggled to make ends meet, as well as the desire to do good in the community. “At Steelbound Brewery, we really care about our community,” says Bill Bursee, founder of Steelbound. “Growing up poor, I know firsthand what it feels like to face harsh winters without proper winter clothing. No child should have to experience that. Partnering with organizations like Colvin Cleaners, who have donated thousands of warm winter coats to children in need, aligns perfectly with our values of making our area a better place.”
The 5.0% ABV Winter Lager represents more than just a seasonal brew – it’s a commitment to community care. “It’s a fresh take on a classic winter lager – you really need to try it out for yourself,” says Bursee. While the full impact of this winter initiative won’t be measurable until spring, early response has been overwhelmingly positive. The brew is available exclusively at Steelbound’s Williamsville location, with plans to bring it back next winter.
Proceeds for every sale of this lager go directly to the Coats 4 Kids program, which has been run by Colvin Cleaners serving Western New York families for over 25 years. This program helps provide new coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and boots for local children.
Coats for Kids started as a national campaign by the NDA (National Drycleaners Association). “Most companies stopped the program after a few years,” says Christ Billoni, Vice President of Colvin Cleaners. “We saw it as an opportunity to do good. Buffalo is cold, and there’s definitely a need in the area.” Colvin Cleaners has been the only company running the program for the past 20 years (25 total) and now officially owns the Coats for Kids 503cB charity name.
Coats for Kids collects thousands of coats every year, over 20,000 last year alone. “It’s a huge undertaking, but it’s well worth it,” says Chris. Colvin Cleaners partners with non-profit organizations (Friends of the Night, City Schools, Saint Luke’s and more) to identify those in need, then delivers directly to those the community. “Every coat is professionally cleaned and safely delivered throughout the season. It’s grown every year and we’re able to reach more people in need with the help of other agencies in the community.”
The initiative showcases the power of local businesses working together, with special recognition to Chris Billoni, Michael Billoni, President and COO of Billoni Associates, Navi Kang, Manager of Sales and Marketing at Steelbound, and Try-It Distributing for making this impactful collaboration possible. “Together, we can all help keep kids warm this winter,” declares the Steelbound team.
To support this cause, visit Steelbound’s Williamsville location and purchase the limited-edition Winter Lager 4-pack, or visit their Amazon Wish List to make a direct donation. Colvin Cleaners also accepts donations of new coats, gloves and winter accessories at any location year-round. For a list of locations visit colvincleaners.com and for more information of the program visit www.coatsforkidswny.com.