As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many families in our community struggle to stay warm. You can make a real difference by donating gently used or new winter clothing. Every coat, sweater, pair of gloves, or hat can help someone face the cold with comfort and dignity.

What You Can Donate:

We are currently accepting in-season winter clothing, including:

• Warm coats and jackets
• Cozy sweaters
• Snow pants and snowsuits
• Snow boots
• Waterproof gloves and mittens
• Hats and scarves

Why It Matters:

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, “Everyone can be impacted by exposure to the cold, but some people are at greater risk for cold-related illness than others.” These groups include seniors, children, folks who work outside, people with disabilities or chronic health issues, and people experiencing homelessness. Your donation not only provides essential warmth, but also spreads care and compassion throughout the community. Every item counts and helps someone stay safe and healthy during the cold months.

Tips for Donating:

• Make sure clothing is clean and in good condition
• Check that boots and gloves are free of holes or major wear
• Gently used items are welcome alongside new items

How Your Donations Are Distributed:

We prioritize client access to winter coats, gloves, mittens, and hats.

At Valley Outreach, donated winter clothing is available through our StyleXchange program. Here’s how it works:

To ensure everyone in a household receives a warm coat, quality gloves or mittens, and a cozy hat, clients receive special vouchers to access these essential items. The vouchers help make sure each family gets the right number and sizes of items based on the number of people in their household.

Jackets and our warmest hats and gloves are reserved for clients, so your donations go directly to those who need them most.

Some winter items—like boots and snow pants—are offered for sale in our thrift shop. These items aren’t always available in every size needed for client households, so we make them available on the sales floor as they arrive. Community members can purchase these items, or clients can choose them at no cost. Many of these shoppers are neighbors who may be on the edge of needing services themselves. Offering these items for sale helps reduce stigma, preserves dignity of choice, and supports our programs financially.

How to Donate:

Donation drive-up hours are Monday 9:30 AM–12:30 PM and Tuesday/Thursday 1:30–6:30 PM. Simply follow the signs and drive around the west side of the building to pull up to our donation dock. Please assist volunteers with unloading donations if you are able. Click here to view the drive-up map.

If you’re interested in hosting a winter clothing drive, check out our toolkit or contact Debbie at [email protected] or call 651-342-5569.

By donating your in-season winter clothing, you’re not just giving items—you’re giving warmth, security, and a reminder that someone cares. Together, we can help the community stay warm this winter.