Health experts report that even a 2-degree drop in body temperature results in reduced heart rate, loss of coordination, and confusion. Adults cannot work effectively and children find it difficult to learn. For most, a warm coat solves the problem. But, for the nearly 15% of Americans living in poverty, a warm winter coat is a budget “extra.”

Here’s how you can help someone stay warm this winter:

Step 1: Look through your home for winter coats which you are no longer using. These can include ones for children too.

Step 2: Use one of the following organizations if you need help finding a place to donate.

- New York Cares Coat Drive (begins November 13): https://www.newyorkcares.org/coat-drive

- One Warm Coat: https://www.onewarmcoat.org/donatecoats/