Former University of Texas football standout Cedric Benson and Austin City Council Member Mike Martinez are teaming up help keep children warm this winter.

Benson's organization, 'Nuffced, will help hand out new coats to Austin students on Sept. 18 and 19.

Benson wasn't in town for the big announcement, but Martinez said there was a good reason.

"Unfortunately, but fortunately, Cedric Benson is not here today,” he said. “He is actually signing a contract today to get back in the game with the Detroit Lions and the reason why that's a good thing is that the foundation will continue to grow as long as Cedric continues to do what he does on the field."

A call to the Lions confirmed that Benson had been there but a team spokesperson said that Benson was not signed and that there was not currently an open position.

The coats will be handed out to children who qualify Thursday, Sept. 18 at Barbara Jordan Elementary School (2 p.m.) and at Gus Garcia Middle School (3 p.m.). They will also be handed out at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at UT Elementary School.