Salvation Army benefits as WTOV9 gives $50K for kids’ coats

The WTOV9 Coats for Kids campaign, in partnership with Cedar One Group, has made a significant impact on local families, raising $50,000 this year to provide warm coats for children in need.

The funds were distributed to various Salvation Army chapters throughout the Valley.

On Saturday, local families gathered at the Steubenville Walmart, where children had the opportunity to select new coats, ensuring they have the necessary protection against the cold.

“Some of these kids are showing up without a coat today, so I am so glad we are able to do this. They get to try them on. They get to make sure they fit. We are trying to talk mom and dad into getting one size up to get them through the early part of next winter,” said Jodi Keller, the Service Director of the Salvation Army of Northeast Ohio.

Keller said about 25 kids got new coats on Saturday, adding that more coats will be distributed in the fall.