With cold weather approaching, the Freeborn County Jaycees are organizing an effort to make sure every child in school has a coat and winter gear to stay warm.

The group is sponsoring a drive through Monday to collect gently used or new coats, hats, mittens, gloves, scarves and boots that will be donated to children in need throughout the county.

“We just feel that it’s very important that all kids who don’t have winter coats and boots, that they have them,” said Angie Dahlum, local Jaycees’ secretary. “If they don’t, they get sick and they can bring it into the schools and get other kids sick, too.”

Dahlum said some parents don’t have the means to purchase the coats and other winter gear.

The group has contacted the social workers at all of the Albert Lea schools, as well as the Glenville and Alden-Conger schools, to find out the ages and genders of students who may be in need.

Last year, she said, all of the needs were met and extras were donated to the Albert Lea Salvation Army.

Dahlum said this year the highest priority is sizes 5 to 12.

This is the second year for the Jaycees drive, and she said the end collection date could get pushed back to allow more time for donations.

People can drop off donations at Hy-Vee, Nelson’s Market Place, Coldwell Banker, Home Federal, Wells Federal, Green Mill, Pizza Ranch, Freeborn County Shopper, Albert Lea Tribune, Minnesota Corrugated Box and American Bank (in Albert Lea and Alden).