Firefighters collecting winter coats for local kids

Clark County — The Vancouver Fire Department and Vancouver Firefighters Union annual coat drive started on Nov. 19, and residents still have a few weeks left to donate coats, which will go to local children through several charitable organizations. The firefighters are also working with the 45th Columbia River Scouts and America’s Self Storage on the drive. Coats can be dropped off at Vancouver Fire Station 2, 400 E. 37th St., Vancouver, or America’s Self Storage, 108 N.W. 139th St., Vancouver. The drive runs through Dec. 19. “We are specifically seeking donations of warm, winter coats in youth and teen sizes, but all sizes are appreciated,” said Vancouver firefighter Ben Burtle, who is coordinating the drive, in a release from the department.