Marathon Petroleum Saint Paul Park Refinery “Coat-Give-Away” to Distribute $25,000 in Warm Winter Jackets to SoWashCo Elementary Students

Marathon Petroleum Saint Paul Park Refinery “Coat-Give-Away” to Distribute $25,000 in Warm Winter Jackets to SoWashCo Elementary Students

Cottage Grove, MN — October 6th, 2025 — Marathon Petroleum Saint Paul Park Refinery is purchasing $25,000 in winter jackets for K-5th grade students in the South Washington County Schools (SoWashCo Schools) via Operation Warm.  This “Marathon Petroleum Coat-Give-A-Way” event is organized in partnership with Basic Needs Inc. of South Washington County, SoWashCo CARES, the SoWashCo Schools and Operation Warm. The “Marathon Petroleum Coat-Give-A-Way” will be held on October 21, 2025, from 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM at Crestview Elementary School for students in need who attend the SoWashCo Schools (ISD833). 

This community event will provide $25,000 worth of high-quality new winter coats to elementary students, ensuring that children have the warmth and comfort they need to thrive during the cold Minnesota winter.

“Every child deserves to feel the warmth, confidence, and joy that comes with having a brand-new winter coat,” said Basic Needs Director, Opey Peñaloga. “The Marathon Petroleum Coat-Give-Away is more than a distribution, it’s a celebration of community and a reminder that together, we can meet the needs of our students and families.” 

The event reflects the shared commitment between Marathon Petroleum Saint Paul Park Refinery and their community partnerships in supporting families in South Washington County with dignity and care. Marathon Employees and other volunteers from across the community will help welcome families, distribute coats, and connect participants with available resources.

“We are pleased to partner with Basic Needs Inc. of South Washington County. Their commitment to assisting local families reflects admirable community values, and we are proud to contribute to the effort to provide every child with a warm winter coat,” said Eric Bohnert, Vice President Refining, Marathon St. Paul Park.

Event Details:

Crestview Elementary School, Cottage Grove

Monday, October 21, 2025

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Distribution to families as they leave their afterschool programs.

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM - Open to additional families with enrolled students.