Nearly two tons of coats collected by the Westport Fire Department were donated to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

More than 1,300 people can now stay warm this winter thanks to the donations.

Westport Fire Department Chief Michael Kronick says his department prides themselves on answering the call for those in need.

"Everyone assumes that the firefighter just fights fire, and our job is to help people in need. Period. No matter what their need is, we will do what we can to help support them," Kronick says.

Kronick says 1,353 coats were dropped off at The Bridgeport Rescue Mission Donation Center today after only two weeks of collecting them.

Lisa Chester, director of development of the organization, says the nonprofit provides a food program, shelter and addiction recovery.

Chester says she is grateful.

"They've helped a family, for a child especially that would be on the bus corners without a coat," Chester says.