JACKSON, Wyo. — A mystery someone started the year off with a good deed, one that will directly benefit Teton School District No. 1 (TCSD #1) students in need.

Last week, TCSD#1 Superintendent Dr. Gillian Chapman received quite a surprise when 85 brand-new children’s coats arrived in the mail from an anonymous sender.

“It was wonderful,“ Dr. Chapman said. “The coats just kept coming and we were all grateful to know that no TCSD family would have to worry about their child being cold this winter.”

The Fund for Public Education, TCSD#1’s nonprofit fundraising partner, is helping to distribute the coats, which came in a variety of sizes and colors.

“This kind of generosity is so uplifting,” said Jennifer Jellen, the Fund’s executive director. “It solves a real problem for dozens of children, and comes at a time when the need is at its greatest.”

The coats are being distributed through all seven elementary schools and through Jackson Hole Middle School, based on student need. If a family feels that their child could benefit from a new coat, they should reach out to their school counselor, school nurse or principal.

Jellen said that anonymous donations are always welcome and that she hopes the donor knows how much the gift is appreciated.

“We would love to thank this donor and we hope they know the tremendous positive impact their gift has had. Support for child wellness, in all its many forms, is crucial.”

She's a lover of alliteration, easy-to-follow recipes and board games when everyone knows the rules. Her favorite aspect about living in the Tetons is the collective admiration that Wyomingites share for the land and the life that it sustains.