Steve’s Coats for Kids to kick off annual collection

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Channel 9's Steve's Coats for Kids is about to kick off its annual collection.

This is the 15th year that chief meteorologist Steve Udelson has led a drive that helps children stay warm over the winter.

The children who receive the coats are from families who are struggling more than most.

Things have been difficult for Quyona Cherry who is a single mother with two young daughters and a baby boy on the way.

Pregnancy complications have caused her to miss work.

"Oh, it's very stressful," Cherry said. "Especially when you (have to) buy food, clothes, Pampers, all that -- it's very stressful."

She said she sometimes has to decide whether to buy coats for her children or pay the water and electric bill.

Early donations to the Steve's Coats for Kids drive have eased that burden.

Crisis Assistance Ministry is distributing the coats the drive collects, which Cherry’s family benefited from.

“They depend on me, so I (have to) make sure they (are going to) be OK. I (have to) make sure I get it done for them,” Cherry said.

For more information and locations where you can drop off coats, click here.

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