Pride Markets thanks customers for donations to "Coats for Kids"

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Oct. 21, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pride Markets, a long time sponsor of The Salvation Army "Coats for Kids" campaign, is predicting a record-setting year for donations based on community participation at its retail locations throughout Western Mass.

With one week left in the campaign, Pride's loyal customer base has outpaced last year's contribution of more than 300 coats at stores in Longmeadow, Agawam, Ludlow, and Springfield.

Established in 1980, the "Coats for Kids" initiative has collected tens of thousands of winter coats to be donated to Western Massachusetts children in need. Each year, dozens of local businesses and organizations take part in the initiative to keep kids warm by collecting gently used or new winter coats.

The initiative asks members of the community to donate new or gently used winter coats that have been outgrown or simply not worn. Belmont Laundry has pledged to clean every donated coat before it is distributed to children in need.

Anyone with gently used outer wear is encouraged to stop by their neighborhood Pride location and drop off their items.

ABOUT PRIDE
Founded in 1972, Pride Markets are recognized as a market leader for competitive pricing on quality products and exceptional customer service. Pride markets feature state-of-the-art pumps, friendly trained staff; amenities not often found in convenience stores, and clean public restrooms. Some Pride locations also have a Drive Thru, Food Court and Subway restaurant. Pride operates 30 neighborhood stores in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut. Learn more about Pride at PrideStores.com