Two Gainesville organizations are collecting donated coats and jackets as the weather grows colder.
Crystal Air & Water Inc., a Gainesville-based heating and air conditioning company, is having its annual coat drive, said spokeswoman Tricia Garzon.
Clothing can be dropped off at Crystal Air’s office, at 1611 NW 55th Place off Highway 441 and across from Home Depot. People can also give the items to Crystal Air workers when they see one of the organization’s vehicles, she said.
The business is accepting gently used items for people of any age or gender, but it is specifically interested in youth coats and jackets because children outgrow their clothing quickly, Garzon said.
Crystal Air collects the coats all year, but it emphasizes the drive in the colder months, she said.
“We’re getting into the season when people will need these jackets and coats,” Garzon said.
Crystal Air has donated about 1,000 pieces of clothing since starting the drive several years ago, she said.
Kirk Smith, the owner and president of Crystal Air & Water Inc., began the project because he wanted to help the community, she said.
Crystal Air is among a few organizations having coat drives this season. The Salvation Army will be distributing coats throughout the winter, said Pamela Rivera, community development director of the Gainesville Salvation Army.
Homeless individuals and others with financial need can receive vouchers to select coats and other clothing items from the charity’s thrift store, said Lt. Karen Lewis, corps officer of the Gainesville Salvation Army.
The charity gave out 204 articles of clothing in October and about 200 in September, Lewis said.
She said it’s important for community members to realize their clothing can be reused for a good cause.
“Everybody has the right to have clothing,” Lewis said.
