Herndon, Va. – February 9, 2026 – Northwest Federal Credit Union (Northwest) is proud to share the successful completion of its Winter Coat Drive in partnership with Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil and his wife, Seli. The drive was hosted at the credit union’s Herndon, Virginia branch to support local families in need of warm outerwear this season. The event resulted in the collection of 178 winter coats.

Commanders fans and Northwest members were invited to donate new and gently used winter coats of all sizes. The coats will be distributed throughout the DMV by the NWFCU Foundation to community members who might otherwise go without reliable cold-weather gear.

“Collecting 178 coats on one of the coldest days of the year is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together,” said Taralyn Kohler, VP and Director of the NWFCU Foundation. “At a time when warmth is needed most, the generosity of our members, partners, and Commanders fans truly shows the power of collaboration.”

Throughout the morning, attendees had the opportunity to meet Mike and Seli, drop off donations, and learn more about how Northwest and its Foundation support local nonprofits and families year-round.

Mike and Seli’s inspiration for the drive grew out of personal experience during the winter season. “While we were driving, we saw a kid walking outside without a jacket on during the cold winter season,” said Seli Sainristril. “That’s when the idea sparked that there are probably a lot of people, mostly young children, who are in need, and we have the platform to do something about it.

Over 275 members and fans arrived at the Winter Coat Drive with bags and boxes of coats, contributing to a strong turnout that will translate into meaningful relief.  “A little help goes a long way,” said Mike Sainristril. “If there’s anything you can do for someone else, no matter how big or small the service is, that can impact them in a big way.”

 

About Northwest Federal Credit Union

Northwest Federal Credit Union (Northwest) is a leading financial institution dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of banking and financial services to its over 280,000 members across the DMV area and beyond. Established in 1947 with a focus on personalized customer service, Northwest offers a variety of products, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment options. As a member-owned, non-profit organization, Northwest not only strives to enhance the financial well-being of its members, but is also integrally involved with supporting the local community through various outreach initiatives and strategic partnerships. Northwest is the Official Credit Union of the Washington Commanders and naming rights sponsor for the team’s Northwest Stadium. For more information about Northwest Federal Credit Union, visit nwfcu.org. Federally insured by NCUA.

About Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation

The NWFCU Foundation was established in 2004 to promote and manage Northwest Federal Credit Union’s philanthropic activities. The mission of NWFCU Foundation is to empower young people to achieve their goals by helping them learn, excel and celebrate life and by supporting their health, well-being and education. The NWFCU Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permissible by law for those who itemize deductions. For more information, visit www.nwfcufoundation.org