By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

The forecast is not calling for “coat weather” Saturday — but you know it’s just around the corner. That’s why for 17 years, the annual coat drive in Hays has been scheduled for late October.

This Saturday, the annual coat giveaway will be underway from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Top Notch Cleaners and Master Cleaners, Eighth and Fort, in downtown Hays.

Hundreds of coats of all types and sizes for adults and children have been donated by the public, with minor repairs and cleaning donated by Top Notch and Master.

“Get here early if you need kids’ coats,” advised Amy Smith, co-owner of Top Notch Cleaners. “They’re always the first to go.”

Donation boxes were set up at both cleaners, the McDonald’s restaurants and in the Hays schools.

“These coats, along with some gloves and hats, are free to anybody who needs them. There’s no paperwork, no income guidelines, no questions asked,” Smith added.