MADISON – With the recent dip in temperatures, members at Madison Senior Center used good judgment in scheduling their latest project.

Center members currently are conducting their “Warm Coats from Warm Hearts” coat drive through Dec 14. “We are teaming up with Inside-Out Ministries for this community service project to collect coats and cold-weather gear for the less fortunate in Madison,” Madison Senior Center Director Vickie Parker said.

The center’s Senior Council, which helps plan activities for the group, made the decision to hold the coat drive to give back to the community.

Parker believes that all of the members at the senior center will contribute and participate in the drive as winter’s cold days approach. “Yes, they are eager to help those people who are less fortunate,” she said.

Individuals can contribute gloves, mittens and winter hats, along with coats. “The clothing does not have to be new. Gently used items are welcome,” Parker said.

Members at Madison Senior Center will gladly accept donations from the public. Anyone can bring items by the center at 1281 Hughes Road on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Although the majority of Madison’s population is affluent, many people are lacking the basic needs in everyday life, like coats to keep warm. “When I spoke with Deborah Ward at Inside-Out Ministries about our project, she said that the first week that their coat closet was open that half of the coats were taken,” Parker said.

“There is a definite need in our community,” she said.

After the drive ends on Dec. 14, senior center members will deliver the winter apparel to Inside-Out Ministries. Deborah and Larry Ward and their volunteers will distribute the clothing to people in need.

“We plan for a coat drive to be an annual event for our center. There is no goal for this first year, but I’m sure we will set one for next year,” Parker said.

For more information, call 256-772-6258, email Vickie.Parker@madisonal.gov or visit madisonal.gov.