HUNTSVILLE — Ahead of the winter months, the Huntsville Parks & Recreation Department has announced an initiative that it hopes will keep people warm as temperatures begin to drop across North Alabama.

The Cozy Care Holiday Drive is a product of a partnership between the Parks and Rec Department and Christmas Charities Year Round. Organizers are asking those with an extra coat, hat, or pair of gloves to consider donating them to the cause.

“While many of Huntsville’s residents are blessed to have a warm coat on chilly days, many people, especially children, do not,” Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett said. “We appreciate the partnership with Christmas Charities Year Round, and we hope our citizens really deliver.

“It’s amazing the impact a small gesture like a donated coat can have on someone’s life.”

Items can be dropped off at any of Huntsville’s recreational centers during regular operating hours. All sizes are accepted.

Donation boxes are inside the centers through Dec. 9. Donors should not leave items at the door or at other locations.

For a list of recreation centers and their locations, click here.