Winter collection kicks off for annual Coats for Kids program

The Salvation Army of Central Indiana accepting winter coat donations & opening registration

The Salvation Army of Central Indiana, along with Classic Cleaners and WTHR, is collecting winter coats, gloves, hats, and scarves for the 38th annual Coats for Kids program to serve more than 2,500 children in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.

People can donate new or gently used winter coats at any Classic Cleaners location. Coats are needed in all sizes, including infant, youth, and adult sizes. Collection boxes are at the front of each store for an easy drop-off and will be cleaned and sorted by size for distribution. Coats can be donated through Oct. 19.

Don’t have a coat to give? Anyone can donate $25 to the online coat shop. For every $25 donated, The Salvation Army of Central Indiana is able to buy a coat in one of the most needed sizes for children registered in the program.

Children in central Indiana can now register here for the Coats for Kids distribution from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 2 at the Blue Ribbon Pavilion in the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis.

Parents or caregivers need to bring either a valid ID or their Coats for Kids registration confirmation email with them to shop for coats. Children also need to be present to try on their new coats and choose their winter accessories. There will be fun activities for children to enjoy while families wait their turn to shop.

“The Coats for Kids program can be an essential resource for families to get equipped for the winter season,” said Major Malinda O’Neil, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Central Indiana. “We are so grateful for the donors that help us provide warmth to thousands of children who pick out coats, hats, and gloves.”

The need for winter coats is great and volunteers are needed on Nov. 2 to help distribute thousands of coats. If interested in volunteering, individuals are encouraged to visit sacentralindiana.org/coatsforkids for details.