With cooler air creeping its way back into the area, before we know it we will all have to pull out our winter coats again.

Having a good coat is critical for safety in Minnesota during winter, especially as temperatures dip below freezing and often even below zero. Some in the community, however, may not have the means to purchase a warm coat for themselves or their loved ones.

Now is a good time of year to go through your closets and clean out any coats or other winter items that may no longer fit or that you no longer use, and consider donating them to someone in need.

Numerous coat drives are starting around the community that will help those in need have access to these items, including the Jack Frost’s coat drive, sponsored by the United Way of Freeborn County.

In addition to coats, the drive calls for new or gently used winter gear, such as hats, mittens, scarves, boots, snow pants, baby blankets, car seat covers and new packages of socks. For people who don’t have items to give, monetary donations are also accepted. Drop boxes are at various locations around town, including Walmart and the Albert Lea Family Y, and the United Way will work with school social workers, the Department of Human Services and other agencies to make sure the items get to people in need.

We’re sure there are other organizations out there who are starting coat drives as well, so keep an eye out for information about those, too.

There are many in need who will be grateful.