LAKEVILLE — Dermody Cleaners has collected and cleaned more than 50,000 coats for children over the last 31 years, and the drive continues in 2025 when the business opens its doors to more donations for those in need for its 32nd year of community partnership.

Dermody Cleaners launches its 32nd Annual Coats for Kids drive in January with the hopes of collecting enough coats to keep all local children in need warm throughout the colder months.

As part of a longstanding tradition, the local dry cleaning and laundry business will collect, clean and donate coats to those in need through the Saint Vincent de Paul Society Center on Washington Street in Taunton. 

Area residents are asked to donate throughout the month of January gently worn children's winter coats. Coats can be dropped off at any Dermody Cleaners locations including 330 Bedford Street in Lakeville (Sava’s Plaza), 34 Cohannet Street and 648 County Street, both in Taunton, and Press Club on Route 6 in Somerset.

Terry Dermody, owner of Dermody Cleaners, said he gains inspiration to help others from a quote by Abraham Lincoln who said, “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” 

“By providing coats to those in need, we’re helping them envision a brighter future” Dermody said. “Our community’s children represent the future, and warmth is a basic human right.”

Dermody credited Martignetti Companies of Taunton, who, in collaboration with 110 Grill, helped kick off this year’s drive by donating over 300 coats. He also recognized Crossed Sabers Ski & Board of Raynham, Berkley Middle School, Segregansett Country Club and Taunton Extended Day Care.

The Coats for Kids campaign is Dermody Cleaners’ flagship community service initiative.

Other ongoing projects include the company’s Holiday Food Drive and its continued support of the Boys & Girls Club of Metro South. For more information, contact Terry Dermody at508-822-6161 or visit www.dermodycleaners.com.