Time to think about winter

This is the time every year I clean out closets and linens. (I can't believe I still have stuff!). I clean out clothes, bedding, pillows, coats and bundle them all up to give to charity.
One should have a warm coat in the winter. Especially the poor souls that for what-ever reason are down on their luck!
So, I bundle, bug friends for their items they no longer use and take them to either the Bissel Centre here in Edmonton or my friend's care centre on the west-end.
This year I will be donating to

Christian Care Centre.....
10137-150 St. 780 484-5847
......outreach ministry of Paul's' Anglican church
mission statement
"we are here listen".......".first in prayer.".....comforts, hot coffee, snacks....sometime more depending on what volunteer brings in......maybe full breakfast, homemade soup, roast turkey, then sandwiches, clothing room, fellowship, prayer.....community gathering place for all....Mon-Fri 9:30-12:00 noon.

While it is run by a church, they do not turn anyone away. Apparently there is increased need in the west-end of Edmonton for food, clothes,small kitchen goods.
Also, a growing homeless group.
Often, we do not think of those in need until the snow is falling and we see a poor soul bundled up in a doorway. Then we thank 'our god' that is not us.
Or we think of giving during the winter religious festivities- which is great!
But, I think we should think of those in need before the snow falls, so they can be better prepared.
When shopping for your new coat- think do you need your old one?
Can you spare a few dollars and drop into a second hand store and pick one up for a less fortunate soul?
Thanks
Raine