Coats are Being Collected

Beth Werner was stationed at the entrance to the Olde Severna Park Beach on Sunday, hopping out of her SUV whenever a car would pull up to drop off a donation.

Werner is a 4-year volunteer with Giving Back, Linda's Legacy, she joins a cadre of dedicated volunteers who head out to the streets of Baltimore on Christmas Eve to deliver coats, warm clothing and toiletries to the homeless. 

The annual Holiday Help the Homeless drive was started over 20 years by Linda Greenberg. The nonprofit also runs a backpack drive with the help of local schools, churches, organizations and families. Backpacks are filled with warm clothes and distributed to homeless shelters throughout the Baltimore Washington area, including Anne Arundel County.

By almost 2pm closing time, Beth had collected coats and other items from about 20 people and her SUV was stuffed to the max with bags and boxes.  To optimize her marketing, Werner had placed two festive gift bags on the trunk of her vehicle, to ensure those looking to donate would know they came to the right place on this quiet street. 

Marilyn Higgs pulled up close to closing time to donate pre-packaged toiletry kits her husband had accumulated during his airline travel. "I'm so glad for Beth, it takes the burden off," said Higgs.

Just before she was ready to wrap up the day, another visitor, Evie Turner, stopped to drop-off baby diapers and other items.

Werner said the organization still needs money, Steve Anstett, executive director, recently purchased over 900 coats to deliver on Christmas Eve. "We have faith that we will receive donations to cover the expenses," said Werner. To donate, please visit www.homelessdrive.com.

Collections of warm clothing continue at the Farmer's Market location on the corner of Riva Road in Annapolis.