Admiral Cleaners Collects Coats For Maryland’s Vulnerable

According to the 2017 Report on Homelessness released by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, there were an estimated 31,095 people experiencing homelessness, with more than 18,000 of them being children or veterans. The report also indicates that there is a dramatic spike in deaths during the winter months.

For Whitney Kerridge, third-generation owner of Admiral Cleaners, this is entirely unacceptable. “Our locations serve the communities of 12 percent of the state’s homeless population,” she said. “These communities are in need and it’s impossible to sit back and not act.”

Every October and November for the last three decades, Admiral Cleaners has collected gently used coats in its Call For Coats program. “Our customers and partners have been very generous,” Kerridge said. “Admiral Cleaners has collected, cleaned and distributed over 100,000 coats! We may not be able to solve the entire problem, but we’re proud to be able to do whatever we can to help keep these people warm.”

The 2018 program is nearing completion, and the Admiral Cleaners team hopes to make this the biggest year yet. “It’s been a cold, wet fall,” Kerridge said. “As you’re getting out your warm weather gear, I urge you to donate your gently used coats.”

Admiral Cleaners is accepting donations at all locations and via its pick-up and delivery service through November 30.

If you have questions, call 410-267-8381 or 800-864-4429 or email customerservice@admiralcleaners.com.