Steve's Coats for Kids collection results

The eighth year of WSOC-TV Channel 9’s "Steve’s Coats for Kids" was a huge success.

“I’m overwhelmed by the generosity we’ve seen this year. The outpouring of support and concern for those in need reminds me why Charlotte is such a great place to live,” said Channel 9 Chief Meteorologist Steve Udelson who represented the station in public service announcements and is the “Steve” in “Steve’s Coats for Kids”.

All coats collected were given to Crisis Assistance Ministry for immediate distribution to those in need.

"During the past eight years, the response to Steve’s Coats for Kids drive has always been tremendous and the outpouring of support and concern from the community so far has been amazing,” said Carol Hardison, Executive Director of Crisis Assistance Ministry. “We greatly appreciate the generosity of Channel 9 viewers.”

The Charlotte Fire Department partnered with WSOC-TV in collecting and delivering the coats. This year, collection sites for Steve’s Coats for Kids were located at all 42 Charlotte fire stations.

“We are grateful that the combined efforts of WSOC-TV and the Charlotte Fire Department were so successful in this year’s generous coat donation drive. Firefighters care about making a difference in the lives of those in need and Steve’s coat drive allowed us to fulfill that void,” said Deputy Fire Chief Howard D. (Pete) Key, Sr.

Hendrick Honda, Ashley Furniture HomeStore, Showmar's and COIT Carpet Cleaning and Restoration sponsored the campaign and also hosted successful collections.

PriceWaterhouseCoopers pledged to donate $1.00 for every coat collected up to $6,000. Because the collection was such a success, Crisis Assistance Ministry received a check on Friday for the total amount!