It’s cold and they need coats!

Long Island has been getting some really cold temperatures, 20 and 30 degrees, and some days even colder—admittedly, normal for winter. But as we trek out into the cold, most of us do so fully bundled up, especially the little ones. Unfortunately, that is not a reality for so many.

Lighthouse Mission pastor Jim Ryan estimated the organization hands out almost 5,000 coats per winter, though donations have been scarce.

The mission is in need of warm winter coats in all sizes for adults and children. However, he said, large and extra-large coats can fit just about anyone. The collected coats are handed out to local school districts and during their mobile food distributions.

“There is always need, but this year seems to be a lot, and we just haven’t gotten a lot of coats,” he said. “Everything goes right here; if you give clothes here, you might see that coat one someone in the neighborhood.”

Also needed and greatly appreciated are hats, gloves, coats and scarves. Please consider donating any lightly used or new winter coats. To donate, visit the Lighthouse Mission at 1543 Montauk Highway in Bellport or donate via their website at www.lighthousemission.com. For more information call 631-758-7584.

If you or someone you know is in need of these items, the Lighthouse Mission will be handing them out at their 10 weekly mobile food outreaches.

WHERE TO DONATE:

Brookhaven Town, Moriches Bay Recreation Center, 313 Frowein Road, Center Moriches:

The Town of Brookhaven Youth Bureau will hold its annual Interface Coat Drive to help residents in need stay warm this winter. Donations of new or gently used clean coats, scarves, hats and gloves in infant to adult sizes can be dropped off.

Helping Makes U Happy, 1 Neville Street, Center Moriches:

The coats collected go to local schools, street ministry and the homeless. Donations can be dropped off at the organization’s collection box at Carlos Pizza in Manorville or at the headquarters’ beige drop closet.

St. John the Evangelist, 25 Ocean Ave., Center Moriches:

Drop a coat in the drop bin.

Center Moriches Methodist Church Thrift Store, 464 Main Street:

The shop now solely collects clothing items.

Angels of Long Island, 350-23 E Main St., East Patchogue:

Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.