Stowaway Self Storage, which operates five facilities in Tennessee, is celebrating the grand opening today of its newest property. The event at 1141 Volunteer Parkway in Bristol, Tenn., will include prizes. The storage operator will also be collecting children’s coats for charity.

The first 200 families to register for the event received a key that would potentially unlock a unit containing a prize such as a cell phone, gift card, mobile tablet or a watch, according to the source. Registration began at 10:30 a.m., and each family was entitled to only one key. Hot dogs and tea were provided by Pal’s Sudden Service.

“We wanted to do something special for the community in honor of our opening,” said Charles Allen, owner. “For 25 years we’ve been helping families, who often times are going through a life-changing event that puts them in need of a storage facility, and we are pleased to protect their belongings for as long as needed.”

Stowaway has also partnered with King University to collect gently used or new coats for children in need. The university will host its 16th annual “Coats for Kids” drive on Oct. 24. During the event, student volunteers will help kids select winter coats, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., in the Kline Gym. The Education Department’s student organization, STEA-KE (Student Tennessee Education Association – King University), will provide carnival games and face-painting. Several other area organizations will provide information about their programs and offer entertainment.

Last year, the school’s drive provided coats for more than 250 area children, according to its website. “We anticipate we will exceed that number this year. Our hope is that every child in our region who needs a coat has one,” said Julie McReynolds, assistant dean for student engagement at King University.

Stowaway Self Storage facilities offer 24-hour access, office and meeting space, video cameras, and packing and moving supplies. The company also operates facilities in Gray, Greenville, Johnson City and Kingsport, Tenn.

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