NEW CITY, NY— As cold weather settles over the Hudson Valley, a long-running community effort is once again calling on residents to help keep their neighbors warm. Rockland County Legislature Vice Chair Dr. Aney Paul has launched the 2025 Winter Coat & Warm Clothing Drive, partnering for the fourth consecutive year with the public health nonprofit TOUCH (Together Our Unity Can Heal).
The annual effort, which runs through Dec. 10, collects new or gently used coats and warm clothing for both children and adults. Donations can be dropped off weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Rockland County Legislature’s Office, located at 11 New Hempstead Road in New City. Those seeking more information or assistance can call 845-638-5100.
Paul said the drive is rooted in community compassion and a belief that no resident should face the winter months without essential clothing.
“This effort is an opportunity for all of us to come together to show our struggling neighbors that we care about them and that they are not alone,” she said.
TOUCH, the drive’s partner organization, has provided more than 30 years of support to Hudson Valley residents. As a Ryan White AIDS Service Organization, the nonprofit focuses on improving health and quality of life through nutrition, case management, and community-based services. In recent weeks, TOUCH has also been among the local organizations responding to the SNAP benefits lapse triggered by the federal government shutdown, helping ensure that households facing sudden food insecurity do not go without support.
The coat drive continues a tradition dating back to 2015, during which Paul has worked with local agencies to assist residents in need. The only exception came in 2020, when she coordinated a large-scale food drive to help families heavily affected by the pandemic.
With economic pressures and colder temperatures converging, organizers say the need this year is once again significant.
“I ask everyone to please donate whatever you can, and to know that your contribution will be warmly welcomed and deeply appreciated,” Paul said.
Community members are encouraged to donate clean, warm clothing to ensure that as many Rockland families as possible can brave the winter season safely and comfortably.
