SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) – As temperatures begin to dip, the need for winter coats are at an all time high.

Today, hundreds of coats were given to children in need through the Salvation Army’s annual “Coats for Kids” drive.

Various drop-off locations were placed around the greater Springfield area throughout October and November.

All the coats donated during those months were collected, organized and given away today.

Salvation Army captain, Ronda Ferreria believes the event is so important because the need is always great.

“People are in need. When they come in here and receive something like winter coats for the whole family, they’re just so grateful. And it’s great for volunteers. It’s a rewarding experience.”

“Coats for Kids” was held at the Salvation Army on Pearl Street in Springfield.

Event organizers say they were able to help more than a thousand people today.

Western Massachusetts residents have been participating in this program for thirty years and keeping tens of thousands of children warm each winter.