COATS FOR THE CHILDREN

WRAL-TV will be collecting winter clothing, toys and money for Salvation Army families in need through Saturday, Dec. 31, at participating Jiffy Lube and First Citizens Bank locations in Apex, Cary and Fuquay-Varina. Donate clean coats and other winter clothing items including gloves, hats, and new long underwear, T-shirts and socks to outfit a child for the winter. Any size coat will be accepted, however, larger sizes for teens and infant sizes are in particular demand. ANGEL TREE ORNAMENTS

SearStone will be collecting household items for The Carying Place through Saturday, Dec. 31, at 106 Walker Stone Drive, Cary. Neighbors, friends and future residents can pick an ornament from the Angel Tree listing needed household items. After purchasing the items, participants can return them to SearStone to be delivered to The Carying Place. Call 919-466-9366 or visit www. searstone .com .

Special Events

CARY KWANZAA

The Ujima Group will co-sponsor the annual Kwanzaa festival 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at the Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave. The theme this year is "The Golden Years Paying Tribute and Honor to Our Elders" featuring the Chuck Davis Dance Company, Dr. Louise Toppin, Dr. Michael Gordon and Kwabena Osei. Cary Kwanzaa is a communal, nondenominational, secular celebration that honors African-American people and their heritage. For details, call 919-469-4061.