King University and Craig’s One-Hour Cleaners are again partnering to accept donations of new and clean, gently used winter coats for elementary through middle school-age children.

“Giving a new or previously owned coat may seem like a small act, but it can make a world of difference to a child who is cold,” said Career Services & Community Engagement Coordinator Adrienne Oliver. “Having that extra boost of comfort and confidence can help in the classroom, on the playground, and at home. The smiles we see from participating children, families, and supportive community members make this one of our favorite events of the year, and we’re thankful to Craig’s Cleaners, the Blue Stocking Club, and Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union for helping support this event and our region.”

Donations will be accepted from Monday, Sept. 30 through Friday, Oct. 25. Those who want to contribute a coat can drop them off at the following locations:

• Craig’s Cleaners – 1375 Volunteer Parkway #12, Bristol, Tennessee
• King University – 12 Maclellan Hall, 2613 Tadlock Road, Bristol, Tennessee

Monetary donations to support the purchase of new coats are also welcome.

Collected coats will be cleaned and distributed, free-of-charge, on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Maclellan Hall on the King campus. Games, food, and activities will be offered during the day.

Anyone present with a child, or with proper identification for a child, will receive a coat. Attendees will be given a number on a first-come, first-served basis, and will have the opportunity to visit a separate room where coats can be selected in privacy. There is no charge to attend.

For more information, or to volunteer for the Coats for Kids drive, contact Adrienne Oliver at 423.652.4711 or [email protected].