Catholic Charities is now collecting new and "gently used" coats and blankets at each of its office locations throughout the months of November, December and January. The drive is prompted by the growth the agency is seeing in requests for assistance during these harsh economic times.

Richelle Vible, Executive Director, asks people to be generous. “Don't miss this opportunity to share God's love through your generosity to those who seek warmth during the cold winter months. With your support, we at Catholic Charities will continue working to meet the most basic needs of our neighbors who are struggling in today’s difficult economy.”

Donors can bring their coats and blankets to any of the following Catholic Charities locations:

• 406 S. Bedford Avenue, Suite 9, Georgetown, 302-856-9578
• 4th Street and Greenhill Avenue, Wilmington, 302-655-9624
• Thrift Store, 1320 E. 23rd Street, Wilmington, 302-764-2717
• 1144 Walker Road, Dover, 302-674-1600
• 1201 Pemberton Drive, Suite 1A, Salisbury, 410-749-1121
• Seton Center, 30632 Hampden Avenue, Princess Anne, Md., 21853, 410-651-9608

The Thrift Store and Seton Center also accept other clothing and furniture donations.

Staff will accept donations between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Thrift Store will also accept donations on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Catholic Charities directs and coordinates the charitable and social service programs of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, offering a wide range of services to strengthen families, care for children, assist the disadvantaged, and build human relationships throughout Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington was established in 1868 and comprises 58 parishes, 18 missions, and 35 schools serving the State of Delaware and the nine counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. More information about the Diocese of Wilmington and the work of Catholic Charities is available on the Web at www.cdow.org.