Justine Haaland

From Oct. 22 through Oct. 26, the University Program Council and Student Leaders in Service are co-sponsoring the “Share the Warmth Clothing Drive” to help families from Brookings that are in need of winter clothing.

The clothing drive is a collaborative effort between the university and the Brookings community. The goal of the drive is to collect as many gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves and mittens as possible to give to families in need.

“This is an easy way to make a big difference,” said senior nursing major Hanna Lindberg. “There are actually people in Brookings that have to go to work or school cold in the winter because they can’t afford winter clothing.”

Lindberg, a member of the University Program Council, is the coordinator of the event. “I just think that there is a real need for things like this in Brookings,” said Lindberg. “All the donations will benefit the community.”

All the apparel that is collected will be handed out at the Harvest Table, a place where low-income families can go to receive a free meal, no questions asked.

There are collection sites in every residence hall behind the front desk. There will also be a drop-off site at the Union from Oct. 22-26 from noon until 2:00 p.m.

It was requested that only gently used and somewhat modern coats are donated. “It should be something that you wouldn’t mind wearing,” said Lindberg.

Amanda Jacobs, a freshman broadcast journalism major who intends to give a few things to the drive, said, “Donating clothes is great because it gives you a chance to help people out and connect with the community.”

There are other things you can do if you don’t have anything to donate. Jillian Verdoon, a senior nursing major, intends to crochet a scarf to give.

“People are always searching for a way to make a difference,” Verdoon said, “and this drive is the perfect way to do just that. Someone who needs a coat gets one, and in return you get more closet space!”

If you would like to find other ways to get involved contact Hanna Lindberg at the University Program Council or join the “Share The Warmth Clothing Drive” Facebook group.