Catholic Charities’ Warm Up Winter drive now accepting donations

As temperatures decline, Catholic Charities is preparing to Warm Up Winter for its most vulnerable neighbors by collecting new and gently used coats, hats, gloves, blankets and other bedding at each of its service locations throug November, December and January.

Executive Director Richelle Vible said, “Please share with those who struggle to provide their family with life’s basic necessities, like warm clothing and bedding. With your help, Catholic Charities will continue supporting our neighbors who would otherwise do without.”

Catholic Charities will freely distribute Warm Up Winter donations through various programs, such as its food assistance programs at the Thrift Center in Wilmington, Casa San Francisco in Milton, Seton Center in Princess Anne, Md., and the Dover office; its diocese-wide Basic Needs program; and its food program for children in licensed day cares. All donated blankets and bedding, coats, and other clothing items should be clean, in good condition, and ready to use. Keep in mind that Catholic Charities staff cannot clean, mend, or repair items, and merchandise not fit for distribution must be discarded at Catholic Charities’ expense.

Donors can bring their coats and blankets to any of the following area Catholic Charities locations and receive a tax-deduction receipt. Staff at all locations will accept donations between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday: Kent County Office, 2099 S DuPont Highway, Dover, 302-674-1600; Sussex County Office, 406 S. Bedford Ave., Suite 9, Georgetown, 302-856-9578; Casa San Francisco, 127 Broad St., Milton, 302-684-8694.

Civic groups, churches, and community-minded neighbors are encouraged to conduct their own Warm Up Winter drives. Catholic Charities will assist any group that would like to help the most vulnerable during the cold weather with a donation pickup. Contact the nearest Catholic Charities office to make arrangements.

Catholic Charities also accepts household items, working appliances, and mattresses. Furniture, large appliances, and large donations can be scheduled for pickup by calling 302-764-2717. Cars and other vehicle donations can be made by calling 1-844-940-GIVE (1-844-940-4483) or by visiting http://ccwilm.careasy.org.

Learn more at www.cdow.org/charities.