Fall and winter months bring thoughts of the holidays and hot chocolate, but many Americans dread the year's coldest weather because they can't afford warm outerwear.
With so many people struggling financially because of unemployment and the troubled economy, the issue is critical. That's why "Good Morning America" "is partnering again with Burlington Coat Factory and the nonprofit organization One Warm Coat to sponsor a coat drive for the needy.
This is the fourth year of the collaboration.
The drive netted 219,762 coats in 2009, which was a 24 percent increase over the 2008 drive. In 2008 the drive collected 177,339 and 175,125 in the first year of the effort.
Donations of coats will be accepted at more than 400 Burlington Coat Factory stores across the country starting Oct. 29, 2010. The drive will run through the winter.
Those wishing to donate may drop off new or gently used coats, along with other types of winter attire, including sweaters, jackets, sweatshirts, hats and gloves.
The donated items will be distributed at no charge to people in need by charities working with One Warm Coat nationwide.
Fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger was among several celebrities who helped the effort last year. Other big names who pitched in included race car driver Danica Patrick, actress Susan Lucci, the stars of the Broadway show "Wicked" and the cast of "Ugly Betty."
If you have a compelling story to share about a coat you donated or why you plan to donate this year, click HERE to tell "GMA" your story and you might be featured on air!
But the stars weren't the only people who helped. The Fire Department of New York, the cities of Las Vegas, San Antonio and San Francisco, Newark, N.J., Mayor Cory Booker, Girl Scouts Troop 4091 of New York and Americans from across the country gave the warmth of winter wear.
Tarajee Saleem, a mother of five, was among the many recipients of a coat.
In January, she told "GMA" that she and her husband had lost their New York City home to an electrical fire.
Since that time, the family had struggled, and she sacrificed.
"As a parent, you put your children first," she said. "I was able to get their things, their coats … but I wasn't able to get a coat for myself."
If you have a compelling story to share about a coat you donated or why you plan to donate this year, click HERE to tell "GMA" your story and you might be featured on air!