AURORA, IL — Winter is right around the corner, which means it’s time to bust out the warm puffer coats. To help residents in need, State Rep. Barbara Hernandez is collecting winter coats and clothing for donation starting Nov. 15.

The state senator (D-Aurora) is coordinating the drive, which runs through Nov. 19, with Good Morning Aurora and Alive Aurora. Items needed are new or gently used winter coats, socks, long underwear, jackets, scarves, gloves, mittens, hats and snow boots.

“Many families in our community do not have the resources to use for new clothing items each year to keep them warm in the winter months, especially with the financial hardships brought on by the pandemic,” Hernandez said in a statement.

She continued: “No family should have to risk their health because they cannot afford the proper clothing and protection during the cold winter months, so I am committed to advancing a legislative agenda that provides proper funding for public benefit programs, and truly addresses the issues of homelessness and housing insecurity to help families most in need.”

Clothing can be dropped off at the following three locations:

• Hernandez’s District Office, 540 W. Galena Boulevard
  • When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday
• Good Morning Aurora, 5 E. Downer Place Suite T
  • When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday
• Alive Aurora, 78 S. LaSalle Street
  • When: 2:45 p.m. – 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday

For questions or more information, people can contact the representative’s constituent services office at 630-270-1848 or email RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.

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