The Altus Fire Department is once again working to keep needy local children warm this winter through the annual Coats for Kids drive.

Now in its sixth year, Coats for Kids is an annual community project that collects and distributes warm winter coats to eligible children and teenagers in Jackson County.

Area residents may drop new and gently used coats in containers located at either fire department.

Altus Laundry and Cleaners will clean each and every coat for free as they have done since the beginning of this project. The coats will then be delivered to the Salvation Army for distribution to those in need.

The monetary donations received are used to purchase new coats for children. These coats are distributed on Salvation Army's distribution day to those who qualify. Parents will place these coats under the Christmas tree for their children to receive on Christmas morning.

Many people always think ‘“I wish there was something I could do.” And Coats for Kids represents a way for members in our community to help those in need.

Those wanting to make a donation can call the fire chief's office at 481-2231 or come by either fire department.

“This drive has only survived because this community believes kids should have basic necessities such as a winter coat,” said Fire Chief J.R. Wheeler.