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OKLAHOMA CITY – Although temperatures are heating up outside, one Oklahoma school district is already thinking about the winter months.

The Oklahoma City Public School District says thousands of its students will be in need of a new warm coat this winter, but many families will not be able to pay for them.

Officials say 90 percent of families within the Oklahoma City Public School District live at or below the poverty line.

District leaders say children without winter coats are often the ones who walk to school in the cold or wait at bus stops. As a result, many either become sick or stay home to avoid the freezing temperatures.

“Many of our kids ride the bus to school and some walk. It is often very cold during winter months and if you are standing in one place waiting for the bus or walking, having a warm coat is necessary. I know that our students appreciate having a warm coat and with programs like Coat-A-Kid, families do not have to feel embarrassed asking for support. The school can determine that there is a need and provide a coat. Simple as that. We are so grateful for our community partners and citizen donors,” said Thelma Parks Elementary Principal Jessica Johnson.

The district is hoping to raise $130,000 before Oct. 1 in order to help purchase new coats for students in need. For more information, visit the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools’ website.