Winter Coat Drive Continues At New Location
A minimal selection of winter clothing hangs on the coat racks at the Klothes Kloset at The New Hope Community Center. As winter approaches, the need for winter clothing will increase. (photo by Ginger Allsup)
Oskaloosa, Iowa – The cold fall air reminds us of what’s yet to come, the cold blast of winter air. Yet, every year many people go without the warmth provided by a coat that’s capable of helping keep old man winter in check.
This year’s coat drive is continuing, but it’s being held in a new location. It is now located at the New Hope Community Center at 308 5th West, also known as the old Jefferson School Building.
A note on the United Way of Mahaska County Facebook page says, “If you have items to donate, please do so soon before the weather turns really cold. People are already searching for a coat. The coats for the drive are still free, and anyone can receive a coat. If you are in need of other winter clothing, they sell that for a VERY low cost, and those items are also available for you while you are there.”
Tonya Rice, with New Hope Community Center, who has The Klothes Kloset stepped forward to help out with the coat drive when the local United Way office asked if they could help out by taking on the challenge. Rice says that both the adult and children’s coat drive are being handled there at The Klothes Kloset.
Rice says those that are in need of a coat are welcome to come in and pick one out of the selection of coats that have been donated to the drive. For those wishing to donate, a box is set up inside the door at New Hope or a quick dash up the stairs to the Klothes Kloset will get your donation on its way to help keep someone warm this winter.
Those in need of a coat only have to let Tonya, or anyone else working at the Klothes Kloset, know that they are there for the coat drive and they will point you towards the selection of coats available, that are completely free of charge. No income or other restrictions are placed on qualifying to receive a coat.
They are also accepting snow bibs, snow boots, hats, gloves and anything else that may help keep one warm during the cold winter months.
The doors at New Hope are usually open at 7am Rice says. The Klothes Kloset is open Monday thru Friday 9am to 5pm, and closed on the weekends. Currently there is a shortage of coats, and Rice is looking for more coats to help fill the needs of the community. The coat drive will continue through the winter months, as the need continues.
If you have any questions, you can call 641.295.1837.
