Four Reasons YOU Should Donate a Coat to the 12th Annual Charlotte Coat Drive

What is the Charlotte Coat Drive? Our largest community event, it is a 2.5-month coat-collection drive benefitting the Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte. We started it 12 years as a small donation of coats from our owners and their friends because we believe everyone deserves a coat. Last year, with the help of dozens of barrel partners and the wonderful Charlotte community, we collected more than 4,000 coats! Our goal this year is 5,000 and we hope these four reasons  will inspire you to help us reach that goal.

#1: The Cause is Amazing

The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte has served the residents of Mecklenburg and Union Counties since 1904 with care and encouragement to people in need every day. All coats collected will be distributed to their men, women and children’s shelters and the Boys and Girls Clubs. Charlotte Mechanical funds everything 100% with zero cost to The Salvation Army or any location, so know that your donation goes directly to this amazing organization. 

#2: The Need is Great

“The Covid-19 pandemic and inflation has had widespread impacts on our community, and lower-income families are feeling its effects the most. The need in Charlotte is always great, but this year we expect it to be even greater,” said Major Todd Mason, area commander for The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte. “No man, woman or child in our community should have to bear a winter without a coat. We are grateful for partners like Charlotte Mechanical who are committed to keeping people safe and warm.”

#3: One Coat Can Make a Big Difference

Just one coat could make a big difference. As Brent Rinehart, the Director of Communications for The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte, has said, “Every day, we have the privilege of seeing the difference one small act can make. A hot meal, a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, even a smile. When you do something for someone else – even if it’s a ‘small’ act, it makes a huge difference. It gives someone hope when they desperately need it. It’s not just a coat…it’s the start of a new life."

#4: We Can Come Together

It is abundantly clear this year (more than others!) that our world needs some love, warming of hearts and ways to come together. We hope this campaign can do just that. And we want to make it fun for you along the way.

Support a local business that is serving as a barrel partner; and/or enjoy free food,entertainment and surprises on our Zip-Up day on Nov. 11 at Dilworth Neighborhood Grille. All details can be found here.

How/Where Can You Donate a Coat?

• ‍Barrel Locations: Drop off at a nearby business participating in the drive from Sept. 5 – Nov. 11.
• ‍Online Donations: Donate monetarily online.
• Zip-Up Day; Nov.11, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.: It is how we zip up the drive! Bring your coats to the parking lot of Dilworth Neighborhood Grille and you will be greeted with free food, music,mascots, giveaways and some zippy surprises. Drive through and go or join us for a bit. This year we will also offer a contact-less drive. Details will be updated on the website.
• Appointments: Charlotte Mechanical customers may give to their technician during an appointment.

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