As the Temperature Falls, Our Community Warms: Why Extra Socks, Blankets & Warm Gear Matter

As the cold weather settles in, many of us are pulling on extra layers, wrapping up with a cozy blanket, putting on a hat and gloves and feeling comfortable and safe. But for our neighbors who are living on the streets, in shelters, or in unstable housing, each drop in temperature brings real danger, and a chance for us to step in with warmth and hope.

Why Warm Clothing & Gear Are So Important

• Cold exposure is not just uncomfortable, it’s life-threatening. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, roughly 700 people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness in the U.S. die of hypothermia each year.

• Our bodies are more vulnerable in winter. The U.S. United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that death rates in winter months are 8 to 12% higher than in non-winter months.

• Many people without stable shelter don’t have consistent access to warm clothing, safe indoor spaces, or sufficient blankets. For example, in the coldest U.S. states, 72.6% of people experiencing homelessness lacked access to a seasonal shelter bed. National Alliance to End Homelessness

When someone is out in the cold without adequate socks, blankets, hats, gloves, scarves, or a snug outer layer, the risks multiply. Frostbite, hypothermia, exacerbated chronic conditions, respiratory issues, and worsening mental-health stress all become more likely. A simple pair of warm socks, a heavy blanket, or a good winter hat can make a difference.

Why We’re Hosting the Fall Clothing Giveaway on November 15th

At Joyce’s Forever Closet Inc., our mission has always been to uplift, equip and support vulnerable women and individuals in our community. As the weather shifts, we know the material needs change, outdoor and transitional living environments become harsher, and so do the gaps.

That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our Fall Clothing Giveaway on November 15th. On this date we will distribute key cold-weather items, extra socks, gloves, hats, scarves, warm outerwear, to people who may be at risk of entering the cold season without sufficient protection.

Here’s why this matters:

• It’s pre-season, when the weather is first turning colder and before full winter sets in, so we can help people get ahead of the crisis.

• It ties directly to our model of “blessing bags” and resource readiness: we don’t wait until someone is in crisis, we prepare and serve.

• It aligns with our commitment at Joyce’s Forever Closet Inc. to connect donors, volunteers, and service recipients in a tangible way, each donated item becomes a piece of hope and dignity.

• The giveaway also raises awareness in the community: it reminds us that the cold season isn’t just something to endure, it’s a time to act.

How You Can Help & Support

We are currently accepting donations of the following items (new or gently-used, clean and in good condition):

• Warm socks (especially thermal or wool blend)

• Winter gloves or mittens

• Winter hats/beanies

• Scarves

• Warm outerwear (coats, jackets, liners)

• Thermal undershirts or base-layers

These items will be added to our blessing bags and distributed throughout the cold months, as need arises. If you or your group/community want to donate, please drop off at our designated collection point (or call us to arrange pick-up). Every single item helps someone stay safe, warm and seen.

Why Your Donation Matters

When you give an extra pair of socks or a warm blanket, you’re doing more than giving a “thing.” You’re saying: “Your life matters. You are not invisible.”You're helping to reduce the risk of illness, lowering the chance of a cold-weather emergency, and offering dignity in one of the most vulnerable seasons. You’re helping to build community care.

And for Joyce’s Forever Closet Inc., these items are part of our ongoing work, not just one-day events. Donations now go into our stock for all individual outreach and distributions through winter, so items you give in the fall may serve someone in January or February when the need is highest.

A Call to Action for the Community

• Donate: Pull together warm items from your closets, families, co-workers, or community groups.

• Spread the word: Share this upcoming giveaway on social media, church bulletins, neighborhood boards. Tag us so we can track how far the message goes.

• Volunteer: We’ll need hands for collection, sorting, bagging, and distribution. Your time is just as valuable as your items.

• Be mindful of someone who might be left out: If you see someone without adequate gloves, hat or warm gear, especially on a cold day, invite them to connect with our giveaway or resource table.

• Plan ahead: Encourage people not to wait until a crisis hits. The cold will get deeper; let’s help others be ready.

Final Thoughts

As we head into these colder months, let’s remember: warmth is more than temperature, it’s care. It’s community reaching out. It’s “we see you, we’ve got you.” With the upcoming giveaway on November 15th, Joyce’s Forever Closet Inc. is standing ready, but we can’t do it alone. You are a vital part of this mission. Let’s wrap our city in warmth together.