Coats for Kids Drive Helps Warm Local Children Across Southwest Oklahoma
The City of Altus Fire and EMS Department wrapped up another successful Coats for Kids drive this year with one clear goal: make sure the Salvation Army has the coats they request, and if funds allow, provide extra support to local schools so more children can stay warm during the winter season.
This effort matters because cold weather hits fast, and for many families, a winter coat is not guaranteed. By stepping in early, the department and community help remove one of the biggest seasonal barriers for kids: staying healthy, comfortable, and ready to learn.
2025 Results and Impact
This year, the Coats for Kids drive helped deliver 169 coats to the Salvation Army for distribution. In a major milestone, the program also funded support for a wide reach of school districts and partner organizations, including:
All Altus Public Schools
All rural Jackson County schools
Assistance to schools and organizations in Hollis, Granite, Mangum, Snyder, Tipton, and The Stephen Booker Foundation
Standout moment: This is the first year the program was able to provide a $250 gift card to each of the schools and groups listed above. These gift cards allow schools and partners to purchase coats as needed for children who may need immediate help during the season.
Who Benefited
While the Salvation Army distributes the coats directly and specific recipients are not tracked by the department, the additional gift card support helps schools and community partners quickly respond when they identify a student in need.
Community Support
According to Fire Chief Neil Bonds, the program’s success is powered by the community as a whole, with support coming from local businesses, organizations, clubs, individuals, and donors of all kinds. Year after year, Altus and the surrounding area continue to show up in a big way for local children.
“It’s not just a coat; It’s a promise of comfort, health, and someone who cares.”
Photo Credit
Photos provided by Melody Gibson, Administrator, City of Altus Fire, Rescue, Emergency Management, and EMS.
