Gearing up for winter: Pitch in and help Condella's Coats for Kids



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- They're a necessity for Milwaukee winters, but the unfortunate reality is there are many children in need who don't own a coat.

"Can you imagine getting through the winter with just a sweater here in Milwaukee? So we see the need," said Salvation Army Community Relations Director Faithe Colas.

But Condella's Coats for Kids is trying to change that.

Now in its 30th year, we're asking everyone to check their closet for gently used coats to donate to the cause.

"We`re excited that we`re starting off the program with a bang if you will. 1,100 coats we have so far in just a week that`s wonderful. Our goal is 10,000 and we can do that," said Colas.

You can drop off the coats for infants up to adults at the Salvation Army, Steinhafels, or Johnson Bank.

"Keeping everyone warm is important in this city and anything we can do to make a little bit of a difference really adds up," said Milwaukee Johnson Bank President Gus Hernandez.

You can also host your own coat drive.

If you collect 50 or more coats Bonded Transportation will pick them up for free.

"We encourage schools, civic organizations, corporate businesses, even churches to host coat drives," said Colas.

All the coats are professionally cleaned by ITU Absorb Tech before being distributed to their excited new owner.

"We see the faces of the children when they see that they have a coat to wear for the winter. They smile and they know that they`re going to be warm," said Colas.

It's the warm hearts of donors keeping kids toasty and safe this winter. Condella's Coats for Kids runs through October 12th.