Times Observer photo by Josh Cotton Hazel, left, and Eliza with coats that are part of the Clarendon Coat Closet at Trinity United Methodist Church. Pickups for this year are set for Sat. at the church from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Current temperatures might not make you think of winter, but Trinity United Methodist Church is preparing to meet a need that they know is coming.

This year marks the 11th year that the church, located at 23 N. Main St., has operated the Clarendon Coat Closet. It will be open for pickups Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We, just like other churches in the area, know the importance of ministry in whatever fashion,” Jim Houghtling explained.

The funds come from the congregation and a local organization that assists financially and community partners are the source of the referrals.

The program is open to children in the Sheffield attendance area. The church has also worked with Head Start to meet needs of students in that program.

Houghtling said the referrals come with gender and size. “Then we go about buying the coats that meet the needs of each individual child.

“The joys and blessings we receive are awesome. The ‘thank yous’, the smiles and the modeling of their new coats is something to see.”

Those who may have need can still call the church office at (814) 723-5435 and the church will try to fulfill the request.

“We also have hats, gloves, mittens and scarfs for the kids and they love picking out what goes best with their coat,” Houghtling said.