BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) — Over a hundred people will be a little warmer this winter thanks to the Youngstown Blue Coats, which held Sunday afternoon a coat drive at Steel Valley Brew Works in Boardman.

Five local businesses collected over 100 coats ahead of the drive, and more people dropped coats off during the event.

Youngstown Blue Coats is committed to helping 63 agencies this year, including eight school districts. They’ll provide warm coats, shoes and socks to those in need.

Last year, the Blue Coats served over 3,500 people. Founder Patty Summers said it’s only possible through community support.

“It’s amazing. Without the donations that we get from these types of events, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do, and that is to serve people free coats, free warming items,” Summers said.

The Youngstown Blue Coats is always accepting new or gently used:

  • Coats
  • Winter hats
  • Blankets
  • Tarps
  • Tents
  • Gloves
  • Sleeping bags
  • Boots
  • Mittens
  • New socks

Those interested in donating can drop off warming items at O’Reilleys locations across Mahoning and Trumbull counties, or visit the Youngstown Blue Coats’ website for more information.

And across the Valley, there will be other drives at the following locations and times:

Phipps Family Memorial Winter Coat Drive – The Phipps Family Memorial is asking the public to help families in need by donating new coats in all sizes. The drive will run until Dec. 15 and collection sites are located at Struthers City Hall, Youngstown AMVETS and various businesses throughout Struthers. Distributions will be made through Struthers Schools. Phipps Family Memorial along with the Youngstown AMVETS will also be hosting their third-annual chili cookoff from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday as the kickoff event.

Share the Warmth Coat Drive – Banjak Heating & Cooling is hosting an extended coat drive through Dec. 31. They are accepting new or gently used coats, scarves, socks and gloves. Donations can be made Monday through Friday between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at their office located at 1382 E. State Street in Sharon, Pennsylvania.