Charlie’s Kids-4-Kids Coat Drive started when he was just six years old listening to the radio station, K-Love, before going to bed. The station was talking about a coat drive where all coats donated were given to those in need. He was inspired by this initiative and wanted to start his own coat drive. After explaining the idea to his mom, Charlie’s Kids-4-Kids Coat Drive was formed.  

Since then, Charlie has been collecting jackets from all over the Lubbock area in hopes of providing people with warmth during the colder months. A total of 8,130 coats have been donated over the past 11 years. The most rewarding part for Pitner is the coat delivery process. 

“My favorite part of the coat drive is getting to deliver the coats by hand! Seeing the smiles on people’s faces over something as simple as a coat shows me the real reason behind why I do this coat drive,” said Charlie Pitner.  

Through the help of a local ministry, numerous children, adults, and families receive the coats donated from the drive.  

“The coats are donated to Kingdom Come Ministries, a local ministry in town that works to help those in need and spread the word of God,” said Pitner. “Most of the coats are delivered to multiple lower income elementary schools where every single kid will be able to take home a coat! Not only do the kids receive a coat but parents coming to pick up their kids from school also are able to pick up coats for themselves and other members of their family. Whatever is left over, Kingdom Come Ministries will keep and distribute to those in need throughout the year.” 

There are currently nine coat drop-off locations around Lubbock. New or gently used coats of all sizes are accepted. The drop off locations include: First United Methodist Church, Wentz Orthodontics, Ready Set Go, Triple J’s, Stride Fitness, The Dance Gallery, J&B Coffee, Best in Home Care, and David Long, M.D, at Pyramid Plaza.  

“We also have a box in the Frenship High School Band Hall and will be partnering with the band for the ‘Coats for Notes’ Christmas Concert on December 12th where there will be a drop off box at the door,” said Pitner.  

You can donate to Charlie’s Kids-4-Kids Coat Drive until December 10, 2023. Pitner wants to thank those who play a role in providing others with jackets during the winter season.  

“None of this would be possible without the support of the Lubbock community and all of our partners. Thank you,” said Pitner.