Libertyville Sunrise Rotary, Zengeler Cleaners kick off ‘Coats For Vets’ drive

Donations accepted through Oct. 31 at Zengeler Cleaners’ Libertyville locations

Fall is officially here and winter is lurking just around the corner. With that in mind, it’s time for Libertyville Sunrise Rotary to team up with Zengeler Cleaners for the annual “Coats for Vets” collection drive. The goal is to collect winter coats, jackets and other seasonal apparel for veterans throughout northern Illinois. Donations can be dropped off at either of Zengeler Cleaners’ Libertyville locations — 539 East Park Ave. and 1401 Peterson Road — as both stores are official collection locations for the 2026 drive. Donations are also accepted at the businesses of participating Libertyville Sunrise Rotary members.

“With so many conflicts throughout the world, we have an ever-increasing number of veterans returning from active duty, often facing serious problems readjusting to civilian life,” said Tom Zengeler, president of Zengeler Cleaners. “As long as U.S. troops are deployed around the world, we’ll have a steady stream of veterans who need assistance finding meaningful work and, with it, the ability to provide adequate food, clothing and housing for their families. ‘Coats for Vets’ provides a great opportunity for each of us to show appreciation for the sacrifices our troops make on our behalf by donating to this important cause.”

While the collection drive is called “Coats for Vets,” all types of clothing are welcomed, including gloves, hats and other seasonal apparel, in addition to coats, jackets and even warm blankets.

“With the help of generous individuals in the community, we’re confident this year’s drive will once again be a huge success,” Zengeler said. “And remember, every donated item will be put to good use!”

Donations will be accepted through Wednesday, Oct. 31.

After receiving the donated items, Team Zengeler will thoroughly inspect, repair as needed and clean every item, then deliver the renewed items for distribution by Midwest Veterans Closet prior to Veterans Day on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Midwest Veterans Closet is an organization that provides a food pantry, clothing and a household goods shopping experience for veterans, military personnel and their families, all at no charge.

“With so many ongoing conflicts and limited assistance resources, our veterans and active military need your help now more than ever,” said Carol Goldthwaite, operations manager at Midwest Veterans Closet. “The ‘Coats for Vets’ drive may be a great time to look through your closets and donate all those items you no longer need.”

For more information about the 2026 “Coats for Vets” drive, contact Tom Zengeler, President, at (847) 272-6550, ext. 14, or visit zengelercleaners.com. To learn more about Midwest Veterans Closet and the good work they do, visit midwestveteranscloset.org. In addition to the two Libertyville locations, Zengeler Cleaners has stores in Deerfield, Hubbard Woods, Northfield, Winnetka, Northbrook and Long Grove.