NEWBURYPORT — Those considering throwing away unused winter coats are encouraged to donate them instead by visiting Anton’s Cleaners, 25 Storey Ave., Newburyport.
The advice comes as Caring Partners’ Coats for Kids and Families is collecting gently used coats of all sizes and for all ages through Jan. 9.
Since 1995, Coats for Kids & Families has collected, cleaned and distributed more than 1.3 million coats at more than 200 locations and community events across the region.
Community members are encouraged to donate coats at their local Anton’s Cleaners, Jordan’s store or Rockland Trust branch. Coats for Kids & Families accepts new or gently used, good-quality winter coats in all sizes, with a particular need for XL and infant/pre-K sizes. Donated coats should be warm and wearable; the drive cannot accept coats with rips, tears, broken zippers or permanent stains. Sweatshirts, vests, spring coats, boots, scarves and gloves are also not accepted.
Every donated coat will be professionally cleaned by Anton’s Cleaners at no charge and distributed through local nonprofits, social service agencies, schools and community organizations to children and adults who need them.
“More than three decades after this program began, the generosity of our communities continues to inspire us,” said Anton’s Cleaner’s Arthur Anton Jr., who founded the program. “Our mission remains simple: anyone who needs a warm winter coat should have one. Every school, business, organization and individual who donates a coat helps us make that possible for thousands of our neighbors each winter.”
Schools, businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations, clubs and other community groups are essential to the success of Coats for Kids & Families and now is the time to register to host a coat drive and help neighbors in need. Each season, hundreds of organizations rally their employees, students, customers, members and neighbors to collect coats and help ensure donations reach people who need them within their communities.
School groups and organizations are critical to the program’s success. Each year, more than 200 dedicated school groups are responsible for half of all coat collections. Local public, parochial and independent schools experience the rewards of community service and giving back. To sign up, register at antons.com/cfk.
For more information, contact Stephanie Littlefield, Anton’s Cleaners Community Relations, at 978-851-3721 or Stephanie@antons.com. To register your organization to participate or distribute coats, find a collection location, donate financially or learn more, visit antons.com/cfk.