TCAT Crossville’s Coats for the Cold Coat Drive will help keep the community warmer for the 26th winter.
Marketing Coordinator Britany Qualls said the campus tries hard to meet the community demand. Qualls said many of the instructors and students get involved and make the drive a team effort by contribute clothing items.
“I feel like there will be a lot to come out and participate in getting some items for their selves or their family,” Qualls said. “We always look to helping others in the community I feel like this has been a hard year so this will be a big year for us to help in the community.”
New and gently used coats, jackets, and sweaters will be accepted through November 14.
Cumberland County School System Social Worker Michael Brady said all of the schools are drop off locations for the drive. Brady keeps track of families who need supplies from the coat drive. Brady said at the school level, they are involved with making sure children and families get what they need from the drive.
“(I) ensure they know the dates, the times, what the requirements are,” Brady said. “Being able to make it up there and getting the things that they need.”
Brady said the Upper Cumberland is a more rural area, so resources are spread far and thin. Brady said they know the winter months can be difficult on families with financial struggles.
“They’ve been able to put it together up at TCAT where are families who can’t afford these jackets, and other necessities for the cold season, they have a way of actually getting up there and ensuring that they’re going to be able to stay warm.”
Distribution will take place November 21 and 22. Qualls said there is a three item limit for each person receiving clothing.
