Residents looking to stay warm this winter season can now pick up a coat at the Salvation Army of Chatham-Kent.
The annual coat drive, Operation Cover Up, kicked off Wednesday in Chatham, Wallaceburg, and Ridgetown.
Manager of Community & Family Services Nicole Shaw said over 500 new and gently-used winter coats have been donated to the cause this year.
Hundreds of coats, ranging from children to adult sizes, are now available to be picked up at the Salvation Army in Chatham located at 46 Orangewood Boulevard.
Donated coats can also be picked up at the Salvation Army thrift stores in Wallaceburg, Ridgetown, and at the Tilbury Information and Help Centre.
Donated coats at the Salvation Army of Chatham-Kent. (Millar Hill photo)
"The support has been amazing here in Chatham-Kent," said Shaw.
It's easy to get the idea that only low-income families need this type of service, but Shaw said the organization is seeing more and more families in need.
"Gas prices are going up, grocery prices are going up," said Shaw. "More and more people are in need. Just covering the cost of a coat is a big relief."
There is no limit on coats.
For example, if someone can't make it out between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or doesn't have access to transportation, residents can come in and pick up a coat in order to help that individual out.
"We will make accommodations for anyone who can't make it here," said Shaw.
New and gently used coats are also still being collected. Residents can drop off them at the Salvation Army up until 4 p.m. on Friday, November 4.
Donated coats at the Salvation Army of Chatham-Kent. (Millar Hill photo)