The Salvation Army of Central Indiana, along with Classic Cleaners and WTHR, is now collecting winter coats for the 39th annual Coats for Kids program. This heartwarming community tradition helps thousands of children stay bundled up and safe from Indiana’s chilly winters.
From now until Oct. 25, community members can share the warmth by donating a new or gently used winter coat at any Classic Cleaners location, several of which are in Hamilton County.
Donation is simple; just drop your coat in the collection box near the front of the store. Every coat will be cleaned, sorted, and ready for a child in need. Coats of all sizes are welcomed, from toddlers to teens and even adults.
Not near a donation site or don’t have a coat? People can still support the program by donating to our Online Coat Shop. Just $25 covers the cost of a brand-new coat in the exact size a child needs. The need is great, so The Salvation Army is encouraging the public to make a donation that will cover the cost of more than one coat. A $100 donation to Coats for Kids will provide winter coats for four central Indiana children this fall.
Families in need of coats can register here for the distribution event on Saturday, Nov. 8.
The Coats for Kids distribution will take place at the Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, located at 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. Doors are open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parents or caregivers should bring a valid ID or confirmation email. In addition to picking out their own coat, children will also get to choose from numerous styles of hats, gloves and scarves.
“The Coats for Kids program is such a meaningful way to help families face the winter season with confidence,” said Major Malinda O’Neil, The Salvation Army of Central Indiana Area Commander. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, children not only receive warmth, they also experience the joy of picking out a coat they love.”
This program, which serves thousands of children in a matter of hours, relies on help from the community to make sure that the distribution event goes smoothly. Volunteers are needed on November 8 to help families shop for coats. To sign up as a volunteer, visit sacentralindiana.org/coatsforkids.