Cobourg - The whole community is getting involved in their 12th Coats for Kids campaign. From 200 coats the first year, the program now collects and distributes closer to 700 coats in an average year, says Salvation Army Community and Family Services Director Dave Alexander.

Cobourg's Baker Cleaners takes the donations and ensures they are cleaned before reaching their new owners.

Beebe Boot Shop accepts donations of winter boots and sanitizes them for redistribution.

The local Red Cross makes yarn available for volunteer knitters to turn into piles of scarves, hats and mittens.

Local schools are participating. A McDonald's lunch will be provided to the Cobourg and Port Hope classes that bring in the most donations. And everyone is a winner. A free McDonald's milkshake is the reward for every donation.

Coats and winter wear will be distributed free of charge at both Salvation Army Community and Family Services offices between October 10 and November 2.