Winter Gear Drive 2025 is Here!
Providing warm clothing as protection from the elements is a basic need.
United way of Freeborn County has hosted a Winter Gear Drive on an annual basis for several years. The program originated with the Freeborn County Multi-Disciplinary Team to provide winter gear to children only. In 2019, the Winter Gear Drive significantly expanded its model to provide coats for all community members in need. The resulting current model is a two-pronged approach to ensure the greatest impact on our community.
Approach 1: United Way staff work directly with school social workers and other area human service providers. Staff will deliver coats directly to the school or agency requesting the items, often filling a need before the person in need leaves for the day. This service is available year-round but ramps up in September and October as school staff get to know students and their needs.
Approach 2: Community distribution dates are open several dates between the months of October-December. Community members are invited to shop for themselves and their families, giving the opportunity to have dignity and empowerment of choice.
The Winter Gear Drive at United Way of Freeborn County benefits those families in our community who meet the income eligibility requirements below. If you do not qualify for our program based on your income, please contact 211 for other resources for which you may qualify.
Need a coat? Winter Gear Distribution is by appointment on the dates listed below:
SATURDAY, November 15th, 2025: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
FRIDAY, November 21st, 2025: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
December distribution events to be announced - Please check back for updates on December dates!
Click here or the icon below to schedule an appointment for an upcoming Winter Gear Distribution event!
We have winter gear drop boxes at many businesses around Freeborn County. Please drop new and/or gently used winter gear in one of the United Way Winter Gear Drive boxes around town. If you'd prefer, you can drop off winter gear directly to our office during office hours Mondays and Wednesdays between 11 am - 1 pm.
Click here or the icon below to view our list of drop off locations throughout Freeborn County!
The Winter Gear Drive cannot exist without the support of our generous donors!
Click here or the icon below to make a monetary donation to support the Winter Gear Drive!
Are you a social worker or human service provider and have a family you'd like to refer to us for winter gear or other resources?
One of our staff members will contact you as soon as possible regarding your request. If you need to reach somebody immediately, please call our office at 507-373-8670, or to access other resources, call the United Way's 211 line. Thank you!
For a direct referral, please click here or on the icon below to fill out the referral form.
