As the cold weather moves in, Nelson Ford wants to make sure every young person in our community can stay warm.

The dealership has started its third annual “Coats for Kids” collection, during which people can drop off new and gently used outwear for children of all ages, from newborn to teens. In addition to coats, they accept mitts, scarves and hats.

The items they collect are given to the Salvation Army, which distributes them free to families in need. Last year, they collected over 250 coats, and Nelson Ford manager Russell Stocks is hoping to build on that success this year.

“We always get in way more coats than we expect,” said Stocks. “Children often outgrow their winter jackets before the next season. This is a way they won’t go to waste.”

In the dealership, the jackets are piled into the back of a pickup truck in the showroom. Anybody can drop by to make donations.

“For us this is just a way to give back to the community, which is something Nelson Ford really values,” said Stocks.

The coat drive was a logical one for Stocks to organize in the dealership because nobody else in town was collecting coats.

“No child should have to go cold in the winter because their family can’t afford a warm coat,” said Stocks. “We don’t want families to be choosing between buying a coat or some other priority. If they can get one free, maybe that saves a little bit of worry for them.”

Oct. 17 is the deadline to drop off coats at Nelson Ford (located at 623 Railway Street near Cottonwood Falls), though Stocks said he was considering extending the deadline.

If you are a parent looking for a coat for your child, contact the Salvation Army by calling 250-352-3488.