Coats for Kids aims to address growing need in the Sault

The annual effort to provide winter clothing to those in need has returned to the Sault.

CTV's Coats for Kids is nearing the end of its donation window, with the need as strong as it’s ever been.

It’s been a busy few weeks for Cintas Uniform Service, who collected as many as 200 coats in one day.

The company plays a key role in the campaign, picking up the clothing items dropped off at six partner locations around the Sault.

Before the coats are given out, Cintas makes sure they're in the best shape possible.

"We will separate them based on the type they are," said John Mullins of Cintas Uniform Services.

"And then we will launder them. So we'll wash them, dry them, sanitize, put them through a steam tunnel, and then we will organize them and set them aside for the day that everyone's picking everything up."

Last year over 2,000 clothing items were available for families in need and organizers hope to meet or surpass that number this year.

"Judging from previous years, the demand, in Sault St. Marie and area has grown dramatically," said campaign organizer Stephen Dufour.

"We're seeing a lot of newcomers to the area that are in desperate need of coats and warm clothing."

Cintas has been a part of the charitable effort for four years and staff said they’re glad to play a role in something that means a lot to people.

"You see lots of families coming out. Everyone seems to be in pretty good spirits," Mullins said.

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"I think for me, I like seeing the volunteers are taking them shopping. Their transfer of enthusiasm to the people who are there to get a donated item is great to watch."

Coats for Kids donations close on Nov. 3, with a community pickup scheduled for Nov. 16 at the Delta Hotel from 9 a.m. to noon.

Locals are asked to look in their closets and consider donating any gently used winter clothing items, whether they're for infants or adults.