'Share the Warmth Coat Drive' happening in Rochester

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"* 19, almost 300 veterans n minnesota were reported homeless.

And during the pandemic... the department of veterans affairs says they're are receiving a high number of calls about homeless vets.

For those veterans in rochester seeking help right now... multiple organizations are joining forces to lend a helping hand today.

Kimt news 3's madelyne watkins joins us live to tell us about this event.

Good morning, madelyne./// brooke and tyler.

Happening in just a few hours here at "charlie's eatery and pub" will be a coat drive and the people behind it want to share more than just the warmth... they want to share hope for everyone who's struggling right now.

In a partnership between rochester elks lodge, catholic charities and the rochester warming center... they will be collecting coats and winter gear for those experiencing homelessness, military vets and children in need.

The "share the warmth" event today will offer a variety of different needs to help out the community.

Kayla blunt with the elks lodge tells me this is just one way they can show their "it's a really important time of the year.

It's getting colder out.

It's a big need in town, not just in town, everywhere.

It really is, this is minnesota.

So we're hoping to get back to the community and help support those who need it in rochester."

And if you needed any other reason to feel the need to donate today... the first 100 people will get a free toppers pizza and two dollars off the chili feed, which is tonight.

Live in rochester.

Madelyne watkins kimt thank you madelyne.

The coat drive kicks off this morning at 10 and