As the weather cools and the need for warmth grows, the Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon is once again teaming up with Gault’s Plaza Cleaners for the annual Coats for Kids drive this October. This community initiative calls upon residents to donate new or gently used coats—especially children’s sizes—to keep Knox County kids warm throughout the winter months.

During the entire month of October, individuals can drop off coats at convenient locations throughout Knox County. Once collected, the coats are cleaned by Gault’s Plaza Cleaners and distributed by Interchurch Social Services and the Salvation Army to children in need, just in time to face the colder weather.

“This is more than just a coat drive—it’s a community effort to keep our kids safe and warm,” said Lisa Lloyd, past president of Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon. “Each donation represents the caring spirit of Knox County, and together we’re ensuring that no child faces the winter without a warm coat.”

Boxes for collecting coats, generously donated by Mount Vernon Pak Mail, will be placed at over 30 partner locations throughout Knox County. The drive officially kicks off on Oct. 1 and runs through Oct. 31.

This year, the Kiwanis Club has set an exciting goal—to surpass 20,000 total coats collected since the program began in 1987. To date, the Coats for Kids drive has distributed 19,566 coats, and with the community’s help, they’re aiming to push that total over 20,000 before winter arrives.

Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon remains dedicated to its mission of improving the lives of children and families. For more information on donations, call Lisa Lloyd at 740-392-3270, ext. 2.