The Chapel Hill Police Department is asking for donations of unused blankets. The police department keeps a stock of blankets year-round but they are needed the most during the winter months.

“It’s basically anyone that is in need of warmth and we can provide those blankets to them,” said Chapel Hill Police Lieutenant Josh Mecimore.

The blankets are not only for the homeless but can also help someone stranded in a car accident or who cannot afford to heat their house completely.

“We certainly get a great sense of pride for providing [blankets] to people who need it,” said Mecimore. “They benefit from getting the warmth and we get the opportunity to share hopefully with the community in that sense of the pride that they might get by helping us.”

In addition to blankets, police are also collecting unused stuffed animals for children in difficult situations.

“We will take whatever we can get because they will eventually be used. We know the need will always be there and we will always be working to fill that need, so that’s why we are asking folks to help out,” said Mecimore.

You can bring unopened blankets to the Chapel Hill Police Department at 828 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard.