Salvation Army Seeks Winter Coat Donations
The Salvation Army of McLean County is collecting winter coats in specific sizes as it expects higher demand this year.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Salvation Army of McLean County is seeking donations of winter coats in boys sizes 2, 3 and 6, girls sizes 3 and 6, women's small, and any-gender sizes 5XL and 6XL. The organization began accepting money and winter gear in early October.
Why it matters
The Salvation Army distributed more than 450 coats to people in need last year and expects even greater need this winter. Donations help local residents stay warm as cold weather approaches.
The Salvation Army distributed more than 450 coats last year. Specific sizes remain in short supply, including boys sizes 2, 3 and 6, girls sizes 3 and 6, women's small, and any-gender sizes 5XL and 6XL.
The players
The Salvation Army of McLean County
The local chapter of the Christian charitable organization that provides social services, emergency aid and seasonal assistance to residents of McLean County, Illinois.
The details
Coat donations can be dropped off at 611 W. Washington St. in Bloomington from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Monetary donations can be made at sabloomington.org or by mail to the same address. Individuals who did not receive a coat last year may call 309-829-9476, ext. 289, to leave a message, and a staff member will return the call to collect sizing information and arrange a pickup.
Timeline
Early October: The Salvation Army began accepting donations of money and winter gear.
November 6: The organization posted an update on its coat donation needs on social media.
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Coat drop-off hours at the administrative office.
Seasonal Patterns
Seasonal coat drives run by The Salvation Army across the United States are a recurring fall practice timed ahead of cold weather. This year's appeal for higher volumes follows the same annual cycle, with the local chapter anticipating greater need than the 450 coats it distributed last year.
Residents in Bloomington and across McLean County who need warm clothing can call the Salvation Army at 309-829-9476, ext. 289. Donors can drop off coats weekdays at 611 W. Washington St. or give money online to help the organization meet this winter's demand.
The takeaway
Checking which coat sizes are in short supply before donating helps the organization fill its most urgent needs. Even a single well-sized coat can keep a local child or adult warm through the season.
Further reading
For more local giving opportunities, explore Philanthropy coverage across the region.
More information
Donations of money can be made through the Salvation Army monetary donation page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Pantagraph.
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Would you donate money or winter coats to a local charity this season?
