That time of year has been revisited once again where the temperature drops to skin-raising levels. Before you know it, the ground will be glistening with snow, and every single day will feel like it’s freezing. October is the first glimpse of the return of days like that. 

Which is why this time of year is when so many local establishments pitch in to see a successful coat drive – with the United Way of Sullivan County being one of the entities ensuring our neighbors, friends and family, no matter the age, are able to not only withstand the chilly weather, but come to embrace it. 

Those driven to donate coats, gloves, hats, scarves, sweatshirts and boots to United Way can do so by dropping off the heavily requested materials to 33 Lakewood Ave. in Monticello, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Even before the snow flies, these cold-busting garments can be found to be quite useful, especially with a chilly Halloween evening just around the corner. Their uses will last far into the new year, as well, with the thralls of winter still lurking even into March. There is no better time than now to clear out that closet and find what may be life changing to others in need. Just imagine that old sweatshirt hanging off from that twisted copper wire hanger being utilized by a young trick-or-treater tucked discreetly under their costume! What a warm memory you could have a hand in creating for so many young ones! 

Your generosity could be the difference between a cozy season and shivers. 

While pondering on this, please also consider stocking up for and donating to the various upcoming food and toy drives for Thanskgiving and other important winter holidays. Entities like the Federation for the Homeless in Monticello work diligently to give the less fortunate, the cold and the hungry a chance at a warmer, fuller holiday season. 

Their work is to be commended and supported, and we put our trust that the charitable hearts of the thousands of Sullivan County