As you kick off the new year, remember that the next eight weeks will likely bring bitter cold to the Northeast. And there are many who need help braving the elements.

Readers are being asked to help keep someone warm this winter by donating gently used coats, hats, and gloves to The Dorothy Day House in Danbury. The soup kitchen and overnight shelter is especially in need of men’s coats, hats with flaps over the ears or that are long enough to cover the ears, and thick gloves.

Carolyn Mandarano, a member of the Missions Committee at Christ the King Lutheran Church, volunteers as part of Dorothy Day’s Shelter from the Cold program, where guests can come in from the cold to be served a hot meal.

The guests often ask the volunteers for coats, hats, scarves, and gloves, but in the last few weeks there have been few of these needed items. Ms Mandarano wants to change that, so she has organized a winter coat drive to benefit the struggling men and women who rely on the shelter.

Coats, hats, and gloves can be dropped in the collection box at NYA Sports & Fitness Center, 4 Primrose Street, any time the facility is open through January 23.

In addition, Ms Mandarano is organizing a one-day drive to be held Saturday, January 24, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 85 Mount Pleasant Road. She will be at the church from 10 am until noon to receive donations.

“Help make a difference to those in need,” said Ms Mandarano, who also offers her thanks “for your generosity and support” to those who can help with this special collection.

Ms Mandarano can be reached for additional information at 203-240-0776.