As the days get shorter and temperatures plunge across the country, for many the solutions are obvious. Break out the winter coats, stock up on firewood, and stay indoors. However, for many obvious solutions such as staying indoors and keeping warm isn’t always an option.

     In 2019, a total of 567,715 people were reported homeless by the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Maryland reported about 6,561 homeless people in 2019, while states such as California reported 151,278 people that have experienced homelessness on a given night. When polled 98 percent of 200 polled North Harford students claimed that they have suitable winter attire such as jackets, socks, hats, and gloves.

     When the same 200 were polled 77 percent had donated winter clothes in the last five years. Before the holiday season schools often make an effort to participate in canned food drives, Toys for Tots, and other donation services to provide for those in need during the holiday season. Providing for a winter clothes donation does not require a trip to the store, but rather a few simple steps.

      While many have found it effective to layer in the winter before heading out to school, work, or even the supermarket, this becomes a challenge for those who make-up homelessness statistics. one in two homeless individuals are unsheltered, which becomes an even greater challenge as temperatures plummet and COVID cases continue to rise. 

     A recent U.S. Census survey has shed light on poverty rates in Maryland. Nearly 40 million Americans live below the poverty line, the overall poverty rate in Maryland is 9.4 percent, roughly 553,000 residents. Upon further analysis it is noted that Baltimore City has the highest poverty rate, with 21.8 percent of its population below the poverty line, while Calvert County has the lowest, at 5.1 percent below the poverty line. 

     When considering donations, organizations such as Salvation Army, Goodwill, and American Red Cross are only a few charity organizations that provide for those in need. The Salvation Army offers assistance for families in poverty, domestic abuse survivors, people facing the aftermath of disasters, and the elderly. The Salvation Army accepts most clothing items; however these items should be in good condition for the next owner. You can donate via drop-off location or schedule a pickup to provide for this organization. 

     Rather collecting dust and remaining in the same spot it has been for years; an old coat can be a new coat keeping someone warm this holiday season. While many assume that homeless persons are in need of coats, clothing items such as socks are a clothing item of great importance. Living on the streets, many unsheltered people hardly take off their shoes. 

     This winter, you can be one of many families who provide for those in need. While you don’t have to give someone the shirt off your back, you can always donate a single pair of socks, so those in need can walk a mile in the shoes you don’t have to.