COOS BAY - Chilly days may seem less cold for hundreds of kids in need of warm clothes, all thanks to the generous spirit of local motorcycle riders.

Seeing the success of the Roseburg Hog group's Coats for Kids fundraiser, the Coos Bay Harley Davidson store decided to start their own drive, collecting slightly used or new jackets, throughout the month of April.

And in just a span of two weeks, they were able to collect close to 300 jackets that will now be given to kids who need them through the school systems in Coos, Douglas and Lane counties.

"We know how fast kids grow and outgrow a coat in a year or two," says Owner Alan Pettit. "These are difficult times so we're just trying to help parents that are having a difficult time right now to ensure their kids are getting the appropriate care and coverage they are getting."

Among the recipients include the Coos Bay School District, who will be distributing the jackets through their homeless program.

School officials say it's a need that certainly will be of great use in the area.

"Last year, we had around 267 students that qualified for homeless benefits," says Homeless Liaison Patty Sanden. "So, it's a huge issue."

Along with the jackets, word of mouth helped the Harley Davidson store collect hundreds of dollars in cash donations, which helped them purchase even more jackets.

With the outpouring of community support, they hope to make this drive an annual tradition.