DETROIT -- The Salvation Army and FM 98 WJLB are asking for the community's help to keep metro area children warm this winter with the Coats for Kids Radiothon.

Now through Dec. 5, the Salvation Army will take your new and gently-used winter coats and cold weather clothing.

"We have seen a 60 percent increase in the demand for our services, and that includes families who can't afford food for their children, let alone winter coats," said Maj. John Turner, General Secretary for The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit.

"Our goal is to make sure every child in metro Detroit is safe and warm, especially throughout these cold winter months."

Last year, the Coats for Kids Radiothon collected 1,224 coats and raised $67,509.

The Coats for Kids Radiothon benefit on Dec. 5 will take place at the Detroit Science Center. Fm 98 WJLB will broadcast live from the event from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.

This Saturday also happens to be Noel Night at Detroit's Midtown Cultural Center.

Admission to the Science Center is free that day because of Noel Night but a $25 cash donation will provide one coat for a child in need during the cold winter months

To make a donation please call 877-901-COAT (2628) or visit www.salmich.org.