HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the 37th consecutive year, Ineeda Cleaners is helping keep local children warm through its annual Coats for Kids campaign, a community tradition that began in 1988 and continues to thrive thanks to local generosity and long-standing partnerships.
The coat drive, founded by former owner John Neal and his friend, Dan Deming, collects new and gently used coats, hats, gloves and blankets for families in need. The items are cleaned at no charge by Ineeda Cleaners and distributed through the Salvation Army of Hutchinson.
“It’s really a community effort,” said current co-owner Rachel Nelson, who operates the business alongside her husband, Chris. “We’ve seen so many familiar faces bringing in coats, cleaning out closets, and just wanting to help. Even one coat makes a difference for one child.”
Donations are being accepted through Friday, Oct. 31, at the Hutchinson Ineeda Cleaners location at 13th and Main. The cleaners will then spend the first week of November preparing items for distribution. The Salvation Army will distribute coats Friday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 8, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Nelson said the greatest need this year is for coats and hoodies in children’s and junior high sizes, especially those suitable for kids walking to school or playing outside during recess.
“It’s not just about staying warm, it’s about kindness,” Nelson said. “We can all agree we want coats for kids.”
Ineeda Cleaners has grown to include locations in Newton and Salina, as well as a drop-off site in McPherson. Despite changes in the dry-cleaning industry, Nelson said the company’s commitment to the Coats for Kids mission remains a proud cornerstone of its business.
“The Salvation Army does such a great job of making distribution a dignified, positive experience,” she said. “We’re honored to keep this tradition going.”