FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Friday, November 14th's Coats for Kids Kick-off event at a local school will be the 15th year for the program. It has delivered over 45,000 winter coats through schools and social service agencies.

At 11:00 a.m., Mayor Tom Henry will lead the 2014 COATS for KIDS Campaign with a distribution of winter coats to children at MLK Montessori School, located on South Anthony Boulevard.

“We are fortunate to be part of a caring and giving community,” said Mayor Henry. “It’s important for us to come together to assist children in need of winter coats. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to make a positive difference.”

Beginning Friday, individuals are asked to donate gently used or new coats that are being collected at all Peerless Cleaner locations and Kroger stores. Collections will continue through Sunday, December 7th. Cash donations are also welcome and can be accepted online at http://www.volunteerfortwayne.org/. 

Coats will be delivered to schools and social service agencies by Fort Wayne Firefighters prior to the Holiday break during the week of December 15th.