Winter temps seem to be a bit harsher this year, so those without coats, jackets, gloves and scarves are more in need than ever.

The Office of Student Life is holding a coat drive on the OSU Institute of Technology campus during the month of January to help those in need in Okmulgee.

Kamie Rash, Student Life activities coordinator, said students, faculty and staff can bring coats, stocking caps, scarves and gloves to Covelle Hall through Wednesday Jan. 31.

“Any and all coats are welcome; we are not picky. There are all types and sizes needed during the wild weather patterns here in Oklahoma,” Rash said.

And you don’t have to spend any money in order to donate either; in fact, it’s a good reason to clean out some closets.

“There is no need to go out and purchase a brand new jacket unless, of course, that’s what you want to do. Gently used coats that are gathering dust in the closet are perfectly acceptable,” she said. “We do ask that those coats be washed before donating.”

Rash said the coat drive is January’s Community Service Event so those who donate can also receive community service credit, but she hopes those who bring cold weather gear get more out of it than just community service credit.

“Our campus community is vast and also very connected. This is a chance for the campus community to come together and give back to the community of Okmulgee and those within who are in need,” she said. “Nobody likes to be cold.”