After the wet and cold day, people may have needed a jacket to stay warm. But for many, that may not be an option, which is why the Erie News Now Coat Drive came at the perfect timing.

As soon as they arrived, coats were off the hangers and in the arms of new owners on Friday and Saturday.


Carol Blakeslee, a volunteer explained, "They come and they go real quick. The need is real important to people living in the streets."


David French was one of the many people who benefited the Erie News Now Community Coats Drive in Perry Square on Saturday.
"This is my first year in Erie. For just about six years ago, I lived in Las Vegas, so I didn't have a lot of winter clothes. I didn't have too many long pairs of pants. So I'm ready for winter", said French.


He like many others could choose from a variety coats for free. But it wasn't just winter coats that people could pick up all weekend. There was gloves, hats, scarves, mittens, even blankets that community members donated to help those in need. 


French stocked up on clothing essentials just as the weather began to turn. As French explained, "Hoodies, jackets, socks, t-shirts, for me and my friend Katie, and we've been really lucky to get stuff that it's really nice stuff."


French said these acts of kindness and generosity from the community are some of the many reasons he's happy to call Erie his new home. "I'm thankful for this place like this. Erie is a very giving community. Whether you need something to eat, you need some some health care you want. I mean, free clothes. Come on. What's wrong with free", said French.