We all know how bone-chilling cold it can get in Cleveland during the winter months, and for many a winter jacket can be a luxury.
But on Sunday, dozens of people received a helping hand at the annual Warm-Up Cleveland event, hosted by the non-profit organization Needs Cleveland.
From kids to adults, about 2,000 new and gently used coats were given away.
"We're very happy to be giving away coats and helping kids and adults stay warm in this upcoming frigid winter," owner of Needs Cleveland Alison Ripcho said.
Ripcho and her husband, Bill, own the photo studio next to Needs Cleveland. They said they see the need for this type of event nearly every day.
"We can't go to work every day, my husband and I, without seeing someone in need. So for us, it's a really great opportunity to have a party for the community, the people that live around the studio. And also just to give back and keep people warm during this cold weather," Ripcho said.
Needs Cleveland purchased about half of the coats given away from Operation Warm and another 1,000 were donated.
"Personally it's an amazing feeling to be able to give coats to kids and stay warm. I can't even describe how great it feels just to give back," Ripcho said.
Needs Cleveland is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. All items are free. Donations are accepted Monday-Thursday.
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