Limestone Legacy Foundation Donates Winter Coats at Annual Gear UP Gala in Manistique, Michigan
The Limestone Legacy Foundation (LLF) donated more than 100 winter coats to students and families throughout Schoolcraft County during the 3rd Annual Gear UP Gala in Manistique, Michigan.
The Gear UP Gala, organized by local community members under the leadership of Christi Ryan and in collaboration with Manistique Area Schools, has become a go-to event for students and families as they prepare for the new school year.
In alignment with its mission to build a lasting legacy of stronger communities by investing in education, empowering future generations, and advancing economic opportunity and resilience, the Limestone Legacy Foundation hosted a booth at the 3rd Annual Gear UP Gala, where students and families were invited to select winter coats free of charge.
The Foundation was especially proud to partner with Knights of Columbus, who donated 50 winter coats for the event and Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, whose employees answered the call by donating over 300 hats and mittens, further expanding the reach and impact of this initiative. Through collaborations like these, the Foundation and its community partners are helping ease financial pressures on families while ensuring local students are equipped for a successful school year. Overall, 136 winter coats and over 300 pairs of mittens were distributed to local families through this initiative.
The Limestone Legacy Foundation advances Limestone Financial Credit Union’s mission of building a better financial tomorrow through service, education, and advocacy. As the philanthropic arm of the credit union, the Foundation supports initiatives that empower individuals, strengthen financial independence, and expand opportunities for long-term economic well-being. Through charitable giving, community partnerships, and investments in youth, education, and entrepreneurship, the Foundation helps build stronger, more resilient communities across the region.
“Back-to-school season is an exciting time for students, but for many families it can also bring significant expenses,” said Jennifer C. Watson, CEO of Limestone Financial Credit Union. “By providing winter coats through the Gear UP Gala, we’re helping ease some of the financial burden parents face while ensuring students have what they need to stay warm, comfortable, and focused on their education. We are proud to partner with local organizations that invest in the success of children and the future of Schoolcraft County.”
The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all the volunteers whose dedication and support helped make the event a success. Volunteers from Limestone Financial Credit Union contributed their time and talents throughout the event, including Kiarra Herson, Regina Johannes, Kayleigh Nance, Jennifer Watson, and Michaela Zuzula.
About Limestone Legacy Foundation
The Limestone Legacy Foundation is the charitable foundation of Limestone Financial Credit Union. Established to expand the credit union’s community impact, the Foundation invests in programs and partnerships that promote financial well-being, educational advancement, community development, and economic opportunity throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and the surrounding communities.
