Leesburg’s annual citywide Jacket Drive wrapped up this year with an outpouring of community support, thanks in large part to the leadership and dedication of Miss Leesburg, Claire Carlton.

Claire spearheaded the effort from start to finish, distributing seven collection boxes across the city and managing weekly pickups as donations came in. Over the course of the drive, she spent countless hours sorting jackets for men, women and children, carefully bagging and labeling each donation. In addition to jackets, she organized mittens, hats, socks and other winter clothing items.

Once collected and sorted, Claire personally delivered donations to several local organizations, including The Salvation Army, The Haven, First Baptist Church Men’s Mission, Friends of the Homeless and Worship on the Water.

In total, the drive resulted in more than 70 large garbage bags of donations, including approximately 300 jackets, more than 100 blankets and two large bags filled with scarves, gloves, hats, socks and other winter wear. All of the work was completed by Carlton herself, supported by generous community participation.

Organizers praised the community’s response and expressed pride in Claire’s commitment to serving others, noting that her efforts helped provide warmth and comfort to individuals and families in need throughout the area.

The success of the Jacket Drive was also made possible through the support of local businesses and organizations that helped spread the word, including Cecil Clark Chevrolet, MLD Roofing and Construction, OBG Lions Club Bingo, Irvin B. Green & Associates, Kay’s Barber & Beauty Shop, Mia Bella Salon & Spa and Eddie C. Orobitg, DMD.