EVANSVILLE, Ind. – As colder weather settles over southwestern Indiana, a group of local leaders and businesses have rallied to protect the city’s youngest residents from the chill. The 40th annual Coat‑A‑Kid campaign officially opened Wednesday at Don’s Cleaners, marking four decades of community‑driven generosity.
How the drive works
Organizers are asking Evansville families, churches, schools and civic groups to donate new or gently used winter coats for children in need. Donations may be dropped off at any Don’s Cleaners location throughout the city from now until Dec. 31. Once collected, each coat is professionally cleaned and then handed directly to families at no cost.
Why the need is urgent
“We want to be able to provide winter coats for kids that may need them,” said Bryan Schmidt, president of Don’s Cleaners. “With gas bills being really high, people may have to choose between buying a new coat for their kid or paying an electric bill or something, so this is an option that we want to be able to provide.”
The statement reflects a broader economic strain felt by many Hoosier households this winter. Rising energy costs have forced families to prioritize essential utilities, often leaving little room in the budget for seasonal clothing. By offering a free, ready‑to‑wear coat, the campaign helps ease that burden and ensures children can attend school and play outdoors without fear of frostbite.
Community partners and volunteers
Beyond Don’s Cleaners, the drive has attracted support from local churches, the Evansville Chamber of Commerce, and several neighborhood associations. Volunteers are staffing drop‑off sites, sorting coats by size, and coordinating delivery to partner agencies such as the Evansville Rescue Mission and local school districts.
“Our volunteers are the heart of this effort,” said Maria Lopez, a longtime volunteer with the campaign. “Every coat we receive is a tangible reminder that our neighbors care for one another.”
How to get involved
Residents who wish to contribute can bring coats to any Don’s Cleaners storefront. The business operates six locations across Evansville, making drop‑off convenient for most neighborhoods. For those unable to transport a coat, the campaign offers a pickup service; volunteers will arrange a time to collect donations from homes or community centers.
Donors are encouraged to ensure coats are clean and in good repair. If a coat needs minor repairs, the cleaning staff will handle basic fixes before distribution. Items that are heavily soiled or damaged beyond repair will be set aside for textile recycling.
Looking ahead
The Coat‑A‑Kid initiative aims to distribute at least 1,200 coats by the end of the year, a goal that reflects the growing need in Vanderburgh County. Organizers will track progress through weekly updates posted on the campaign’s Facebook page and local news outlets.
“Our hope is that every child in Evansville can step outside this winter feeling safe and warm,” Schmidt added. “When a community comes together like this, it shows the strength of our shared values – caring for families, supporting one another, and upholding the dignity of every child.”
Contact information
For more details on donation drop‑off locations, volunteer opportunities, or to arrange a pickup, visit Don’s Cleaners Coat‑A‑Kid page or call the main store at (812) 555‑1234.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
