KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knox Area Rescue Ministries kicked off its "Coats for the Cold" collection drive. The annual coat drive collects thousands of coats for those in the area who may not have a coat during the winter months.
The community can donate new and gently used men's, women's and children's coats at any KARM store location at any time. The last day to donate is Saturday, Nov. 9
Those in need of a coat can contact local service agencies or churches to receive a coat ticket, then shop at any KARM Stores location free of charge with the ticket any time between Nov. 18 through Dec. 7.
"As the cold nights settle in, it is a daily reminder that there are many in our community that don't have the means to get a new coat this year," Julia Dietz, director of marketing and communications for KARM, said. "Coats for the Cold is set up to allow thousands of people in our area to come in and have a dignified shopping experience to receive a coat free of charge that they may not otherwise be able to have this year."
In 2023, KARM collected over 9,433 coats. The nonprofit is hoping to reach 10,000 coat donations.
KARM has stores spanning Knox, Loudon, Anderson, Blount, Sevier, Hamblen and Grainger counties.
