SALEM — Collection is underway for the fifth annual Warm Up Salem winter donation drive.

The annual donation drive collects new and gently used scarves, hats, and gloves to be posted on light poles downtown where anyone who needs one can take it free of charge from Nov. 2 through 7. Donations can be dropped off either at Simply Scarves and Such at 536 E. State St. from noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. on Fridays, or at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at 210 E. State St. from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. Monday through Friday through Oct. 31.

Simply Scarves and Such Owner Vicki McGee said that she was first inspired to begin the annual collection by a trend of similar collection efforts online. She said that she collaborated with then-executive director of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Lori Jewell to organize the collection efforts each year, and that after taking a year off in 2024 was now partnering with current Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Alicia Johnston to continue the tradition.

“I just thought that was an excellent way to support people in need to stay warm, whether they’re homeless, or elderly, or need some help for any reason,” said McGee.

McGee said that the donation drive has had consistent support with both private and corporate donors who frequently ask to remain anonymous. She also said that often local residential care facilities will have residents knit scarves by hand and attach a photo of the resident to the pole with the scarf.

Any items unclaimed after Nov. 7 will be donated to local nonprofits.