Four churches, with the help of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Arlington, are running an ambitious coat drive to help those in need this winter. The goal of the drive is to collect 10,000 coats for the homeless, refugees and immigrants, single mothers and anyone else in need in the region.

coat drive fairfax area flyer edited version 1 Between now and September 27, anyone interested in donating a new or gently used coat can drop it off at Holy Spirit Catholic Church Parish Office, 5121 Woodland Way, Annandale, Va. 22003, daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“Holy Spirit Catholic Church, along with our school, has always been a strong supporter of Catholic Charities' work helping the poor,” said Rev. John O’Donohue, pastor of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Annandale. “Coordinating this coat drive with other area parishes will greatly benefit thousands of our neighbors who would otherwise not be prepared for the winter. We are so blessed and fortunate to have generous parishioners and members of the community who want to help us achieve this goal.”

Organizers are also hoping to collect a wide range of new items, including hats, gloves, and scarves. 

Items can also be dropped off during weekend Masses at these four churches over the next three weekends: September 14/15, September 21/22, and September 28/29:

Can’t make it to the drop offs? Feel free to donate through the Amazon Wish List, which can be accessed here.

“The weather in Northern Virginia is so unpredictable that it is important we stay ahead of the changing temperatures. Hosting this drive now has allowed us to help families prepare well in advance of colder weather so they do not have to worry about being caught without proper clothing for the upcoming season,” said Jessica Estrada, director of newcomer services for Catholic Charites of Arlington. “Many families in our community are struggling with the higher prices of everything these days. If we can provide even the smallest bit of relief, it will help make life easier (and warmer) for the days to come.”

Coats and other items will be distributed, with the help of numerous ecumenical nonprofits in the region, from Holy Spirit Catholic School during the fourth week of October.  

Media interested in talking to organizers about the coat drive should reach out to Mary Shaffrey, director of media relations for the Diocese of Arlington, at 703-841-2517 or [email protected].