Thursday, October 1, 2026
As winter’s frigid temperatures set in, Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow has partnered with the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club and local libraries to ensure residents are equipped with warm clothing during the coldest months of the year.
Koslow’s office hosted its second annual winter coat drive, which ran from Nov. 18 through Sunday, collecting new and gently used winter coats and cold-weather accessories for residents in need. Donations were accepted at the Freeport Memorial Library, North Merrick Public Library, North Bellmore Public Library and the Rotary Club’s headquarters.
The collected items were distributed during a winter coat giveaway held on Monday, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Moore 4 You Community Development Center, at 90 Mill Road in Freeport. The event was open to residents of all ages and operated on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies lasted.
Moore 4 You assisted with volunteer coordination and helped organize the on-site distribution, working alongside Koslow’s office, the Rotary Club and other community partners.
“Donating a new winter coat provides so much more than protection from the winter cold,” Koslow, who represents Legislative District 5, said. “It shows that you care about your neighbors and sends a message of hope for a brighter future. I’m proud to once again be working with the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club and the Freeport, North Merrick and North Bellmore libraries to make a difference in our community.
Regarding his motivation in running the winter cold drive Koslow said, “As a father, I never want to see a child cold.
“And if there’s people in my community that are struggling to make ends meet,” he added “and I can help it make it a little easier for them by giving them the hats or the scarves or the gloves or the jackets that we have, then that means a lot to me.”
As part of the distribution effort to the community, the Rotary Club made a significant contribution, donating 120 brand-new adult winter hats, 120 children’s winter hats, 100 pairs of socks and 20 winter coats to Koslow’s office. The donation was part of the Rotary Club’s second annual winter coat drive, held in partnership with the legislator’s office.
Community organizers said the need for winter clothing became increasingly apparent as colder weather arrived quickly this holiday season. Candist White, director and CEO at Moore4You who helped coordinate local outreach and distribution efforts, said the lack of adequate winter gear was particularly noticeable among children and families.
“Especially since the weather changed so rapidly a lot,” she said. “And then even with just being within the school system with the PTA, like, just seeing how a lot of kids, they don’t come (with) hats, scarves, or they may have thinner coats. So we’re trying to provide these things for them. It’s a definite need within our community right now.”
White said the demand extended across demographics and economic backgrounds, noting that more residents sought assistance than in previous years.
“It seems like everyone from all walks of life right now is in need,” she said. “I think even people that probably didn’t foresee for themselves that they would be in this predicament.”
According to White, financial pressures made it harder for families to keep up with rising costs, contributing to the increased need for basic winter clothing.
“I think prices have went up with everything. It’s harder to get things now,” she said. “I would say the prices of things right now is higher than ever.”
In addition to winter coats, organizers distributed hats, scarves and other cold-weather essentials, along with toiletries and basic necessities during the event. White said attendees also received care packages.
“We’re also providing deodorant, a lot of toiletries and necessities,” she said. “So everybody that comes will be able to get a gift bag of toiletries.”
Volunteers from Moore 4 You, the Rotary Club and other community organizations assisted with setup, sorting and distribution throughout the afternoon.
Koslow’s office said the winter coat giveaway reflected a broader effort to support residents during the colder months through partnerships that brought together government offices, nonprofit organizations and community volunteers.
Residents seeking additional information about similar future initiatives are encouraged to contact Legislator Koslow’s office at (516) 571-6205 or at skoslow@nassaucountyny.gov.
