In an effort to keep Columbus kids warm this winter, Columbus police are partnering with AEP and Starfish Assignment for their fifth annual coat drive.

This year, the drive donated 450 new winter coats which are vital as temperatures drop.

Officers went door to door throughout communities in Central Ohio and gave coats to families in need. Sgt. Lindsey Alli has been a part of the efforts since they started in 2018.

"It actually gives me goosebumps because you know coats mean a lot to the children," she said.

Since the drive began, they've donated over 2,000 coats. Alli said each year, the need grows.

"You see them without a coat, they just have on a hoodie and they say, 'oh I'm fine' and you ask, 'are you really okay? Or is that just what you're saying," Alli said.

Community members appreciate the efforts and the help it brings to families. L.B. Towns lives in Linden and admits the winter months can be a challenge financially.

"They don't have the pressure, they don't have to find a way to make money to get the coats," Towns said.

Towns said he appreciates the efforts and the light it brings to officers in his area.

"It's important but it's fun," he said. "When they see him, they know it's something positive. Something that's worthwhile and coats that are needed."