39th Annual Coats for Kids Program

As the weather turns colder, the 39th annual Coats for Kids program, sponsored by The Salvation Army, Bob Loquercio Auto Group, WCIC, and 25 WEEK, is here to ensure every child in the Tri- County community stays warm this winter. From now through January 31, 2025, the program is accepting new and gently used coats in children’s and young adult sizes.

Over the past 38 years, Coats for Kids has distributed more than 57,000 coats to children and adults in need, helping families who face the challenges of winter without adequate clothing.

“Every coat tells a story, and thanks to our fantastic partners and the generous hearts of our community, we’re making new stories of warmth and hope this winter,” said Major Heath Sells, Peoria Area Commander at The Salvation Army. “Let’s make this winter a season of giving, where every child can feel the joy of being bundled up in a warm coat!”

Where do I donate?

You can drop off coat donations at multiple locations across the Tri-County area, including:

• The Salvation Army’s Corps Community Center in Peoria
• The Salvation Army Family Services in downtown Peoria
• WCIC in Peoria
• WEEK-TV in East Peoria
• Peoria Toyota
• Lexus of Peoria
• Ford of Peoria
• Shoppes of Grand Prairie
• OSF – Many locations, click on link below
• Plus many more…..

For a full list of drop-off sites, visit SAPeoria.org and click on Coats for Kids Drop-Off Locations.

How do I get a Coat?

Coat distribution in Peoria will take place as follows:

• November 5^th and 6^th:  8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Salvation Army’s Corps Community Center, 2903 W. Nebraska Avenue, during Christmas Assistance Sign-Ups.
• November 12^th, 19^th, and 26^th:  9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Salvation Army’s Family Services, 417 NE Adams, during Christmas Assistance Sign-Ups.

Coat distribution in Pekin will take place at The Pekin Salvation Army’s 360 Life Center at 243 Derby St, Pekin during Christmas Assistance Sign-Ups as follows:

• November 4^th through 7^th:  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day
• November 11^th through 14^th:  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day
• Coats are also available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at this location.

For those who need coats but cannot attend the Christmas Assistance Sign-Up dates, please visit Family Services in Peoria or the Pekin office, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, contact Olivia Wellmaker at (309) 655-7272.