Elgin fire stations serve as collection sites for winter clothing drive

As part of the Elgin Fire Department's community outreach program, Elgin fire stations are once again serving as collection sites for the Community Crisis Center's Winter Wear Drive.

Items will be accepted through Thursday, Dec. 31.

"Winter is quickly approaching and there are those in our community who need coats to stay warm," said Chief John Fahy. "Residents are encouraged to join the fire department in helping the Community Crisis Center by dropping off donations to any of Elgin's seven fire stations."

The Community Crisis Center is collecting new and gently used outerwear - coats, gloves, mittens, hats, boots, snow pants and scarves - for men, women and children.

The items are distributed at no cost to those in need.

Used items should be clean and not in need of repair (missing buttons or broken zippers).

The center is especially in need of men's coats and children sizes. Lightweight/spring items, sweatshirts, sweaters and long trench or dress coats, should not be donated at this time.

All donations will be accepted at any of the seven Elgin fire stations. Addresses of the stations can be found on the city's website: cityofelgin.org/firestations.

Each year, the Community Crisis Center nonprofit social service agency provides safe shelter to numerous women and children in the area who are homeless due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or financial crisis - often fleeing their homes with only the clothes on their backs. The fire department appreciates all donations made to this worthy cause.

For details, call Elgin Fire Department Captain Dick Cummings at (847) 931-6194.

Visit cityofelgin.org or follow www.facebook.com/elginfire