Spring Coat Drive
The Salvation Army of Central Indiana, along with Classic Cleaners and WTHR, is launching a month-long Spring Coat Drive, beginning April 1, with the goal to collect hundreds of winter coats for children in Central Indiana.
Throughout the entire month, local residents are encouraged to visit any Classic Cleaners location to donate new or gently used winter coats of any size, from infant to teens. Collection boxes will be at the front of each Classic Cleaners to make it quick and easy to drop off coats. The donated coats will be cleaned and stored for the 2024 Coats For Kids event, which provides thousands of central Indiana children winter coats each fall.
In addition to the Classic Cleaners coat drive, The Salvation Army is also collecting winter coats through the Spring Cleaning 5K at the end of March. Fun Races Indianapolis is holding the race 
on March 30 from 2-3:30 p.m. at White River State Park. Runners and walkers of all ages can sign up for the race and are encouraged to bring along a coat, hat, or scarf to donate. Spectators can also help out by bringing donations and cheering on the runners. Salvation Army volunteers will be on hand to accept all donations.
Online registration is open now for the Spring Cleaning 5K HERE.
“It’s incredible to have so many partners in the Indianapolis area that want to share the gift of warmth,” said Major Rachel Stouder, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Central Indiana. “Our Coats for Kids program can be essential to many families who need winter coats and to see others help, gives us warmth and hope for another great event.”
The need is great in our community when winter arrives and it is anticipated that more than 2,500 coats will be distributed at the November 2, 2024 event at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Because size needs vary from year to year, upwards of 4,000 coats from infant through teen sizes will need to be on hand to serve every child. Donors can help support Coats for Kids year-round by visiting salarmy.us/buyacoat.