MADISON, Wis. -- The annual Koats for Kids campaign is as important as ever to many in the Madison area as the heavy turnout at Saturday's distribution event on Madison's north side proved.

The need has shifted a bit this year, with many attending still among the ranks of the employed, while others are coming from two-parent homes.

With the struggling economy, many are finding that a warm coat can go a long way toward making ends meet.

"We're talking about 10,000-12,000 coats," said Nichelle Nichols, of the Community Action Coalition for South Central Wisconsin, Inc.

Donations for Koats for Kids exceeded expectations this year, but so perhaps has the need.

When distribution started last Thursday morning, lines were long.

"By even 9:30 or 10:00 a.m., we had 300 people outside the door. We were calling people in 20 at a time to keep it safe and to make sure people had the appropriate time to really shop for the sizes they needed," said Nichols.

The Community Action Coalition served 850 households last year and about 2,800 people.

This year's pre-registration exceeded last year's total, and walk-ins added to that sizable amount.

"It could be another 1,500 to 2,000 more individuals who are actually benefited by the coats that are going out," said Nichols.

And despite how the campaign is marketed, it is not just kids who are receiving a helping hand.

Regina Rhyne is attending the event for the first time after having contributed in the past.

"There was a time when I was able to donate to Koats for Kids, so now I’m able to receive some of the blessings that I was previously able to help donate to. So life is good, all around. Just got to hold your head up," said Rhyne.

The money Rhyne isn't spending on clothing will be put toward other expenses.

"It makes a lot of difference when you're living on a limited income. You can only afford to get so many things, pay for your bills, buy food," said Rhyne.

“These are beautiful things," said Rhyne. "They're clean, and I got a hundred dollars' worth of coats and hats and scarves here. I mean, who knows where you got it from when you wear it," said Rhyne.

Sunday will be the last day of distribution for the 2009 Koats for Kids campaign, with volunteers on hand from noon until five p.m. Sunday afternoon at the Northgate Shopping Center on Sherman Avenue in Madison.