The Salvation Army Opens October Sign-Ups for Coats for Kids, Christmas Assistance & Bell Ringing

The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac County is now accepting applications for its annual Coats for Kids and Christmas Assistance programs. Families seeking assistance may apply between October 1 and October 31 to receive new and gently used winter coats and Christmas toys for their children.

Now in its 135th year of serving the community, The Salvation Army’s winter assistance initiatives are designed to help local households navigate the challenges of the colder months while strengthening stability for children, individuals, and families across Fond du Lac County.

“When a family doesn’t have to choose between purchasing a winter coat, paying a utility bill, or putting food on the table, it creates breathing room and stability,” said Captain Chrisina Champlin, Fond du Lac Salvation Army  Corps Officer & Pastor. . “These programs are about meeting immediate needs while helping families remain focused on building a stronger future.”

For many households, the holiday season brings additional financial pressure. By providing winter clothing and Christmas gifts, The Salvation Army helps families redirect limited resources toward other essential expenses, reducing stress and promoting household stability during a critical time of year.

In 2025, upwards of 2000 children received Christmas gifts, a warm  winter coat, or both.   The rising cost of living has The Salvation Army bracing for this year’s numbers & will work through local schools and non profit organizations to ensure all coats leftover after distribution, find homes in local  resource closet & available for giving as need dictates, all winter.

Family Assistance Registration Open October 1-31

Eligible Fond du Lac County families interested in receiving assistance through Coats for Kids and Christmas Assistance must complete the online application process between October 1 and October 31. Application links are available on The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac Facebook. Local schools and community partners have also  been supplied sign up information. Parents wishing to sign children up for both programs must complete both applications.

*Sign up information is included in the attached flyer.   

Community participation drives these programs, hosting collections, sharing the information, donating,  volunteering. Georgetown Cleaners may be under new ownership, but Buck Dumanch continues the businesses longstanding partnership with the coat campaign, collecting and cleaning used coats with care.  Local schools and non profit partners of The Salvation Army who serve children are given he coats leftover from the scheduled distribution days and share them throughout the winter as need arises..

Ways to Help

• Making a financial contribution to The Salvation Army of fond du Lac, online at safdl.org or 237 N. Macy Street, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
• Donating new or gently used coats, sizes infant to Adult XXL thru October 28
• Hosting a community or workplace collection drive
• Volunteer to assist staff in organizing and distributing during the months of October – December and Bell Ring during the Kettle Campaign, its largest fundraising effort each year.

QUICK FACTS:

The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac

Mailing Address:  237 N. Macy Street Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Facebook:  The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac

Online:  safdl.org   Phone:  920/923-8220

 About The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac County

The Salvation Army has served Fond du Lac County for 135 years, providing practical assistance and pathways to stability for individuals and families facing hardship. Through emergency services, housing and utility assistance, youth programs, seasonal initiatives, and community partnerships, The Salvation Army remains committed to helping Fond du Lac County  residents overcome challenges and build stronger futures.