As the temperatures begin to drop, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office has teamed up with the Hennepin County Library system to initiate an annual cold weather item donation drive. The initiative, aimed at providing warmth for those without shelter, is calling for donations of new or gently used clothing suitable for the colder months. The collection will run from October 1 through February 28, making it possible for donations to directly aid individuals before the brunt of winter. According to the Hennepin County announcement, the intended recipients are homeless individuals, those leaving jail without proper attire, and others in need that come across HCSO or library staff during their service hours.
Sheriff Dawanna Witt expressed the community's vital role in the past, stating, "Every year, the citizens of Hennepin County impress us with their generosity during our cold weather item donation drive." These items have historically included "thousands of clothing items, blankets, hand warmers, and so much more to people in need." The sheriff's concern underlies the unpredictability of the weather—"Please don’t let the unusually warm weather this September fool you – cold weather will return at some point," she adds, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
The HCSO and the Hennepin County Library system are providing numerous drop-off locations, including nearly 20 library branches, to facilitate contributions from the public. These sites are spread strategically throughout the area, ensuring easy access for donors. Desired items include coats, hats, mittens, boots, scarves, and new socks, along with disposable hand and foot warmers. Though the operation welcomes used items, it requests that donated goods should not require extensive cleaning or repairs to be useable. For those who prefer online shopping, there is also an Amazon Wishlist available.
Scott Duimstra, Hennepin County Library Director, remarked on the collaboration's extension, "By partnering with the Sheriff’s Office, we're able to help ensure every visitor can find warmth and comfort at the library and beyond." Locations such as the Sheriff's Administration Office and Minneapolis Central Library, listed clearly with operating hours, ensure donors can easily locate a place to drop their contributions. The partnership between the sheriff's office and the library system is not simply a collection effort; it's a means to care for people during the times they find to be most trying.
