Crime & Safety
Lake County, IL Winter Coat Drive Begins for Veterans in Need
Vernon Hills, IL – Residents across Lake County are being encouraged to donate winter coats and jackets as a communitywide collection effort gets underway to help local veterans and their families sta
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-12T16:32:55.612Z
Vernon Hills, IL – Residents across Lake County are being encouraged to donate winter coats and jackets as a communitywide collection effort gets underway to help local veterans and their families stay warm during the colder months ahead.
According to the Village of Vernon Hills, the seventh annual GLMV Winter Coat Drive is now accepting new and gently used winter coats, jackets and other seasonal outerwear to support the Midwest Veterans Closet, a nonprofit organization serving former military members and others in need.
The initiative is organized through the GLMV Chamber of Commerce, which serves the communities of Green Oaks, Libertyville, Mundelein and Vernon Hills.
The collection campaign runs through Saturday, November 14, 2026 , according to promotional materials shared by village officials.
All donated clothing will go directly to Midwest Veterans Closet, which provides free clothing and essential items to veterans and families facing financial hardship.
Multiple Donation Locations Available
Residents can drop off eligible clothing at collection boxes located in participating GLMV municipalities, police departments and local businesses.
Village officials encourage donors to check with individual collection sites for specific drop off hours before visiting.
Businesses throughout the region are also being invited to participate as collection partners, helping expand access to donation locations across Lake County.
The campaign comes as northern Illinois approaches winter, when warm outerwear becomes increasingly important for individuals and families who may struggle to afford seasonal necessities.
Organizers are seeking coats and jackets in usable condition, along with other winter clothing that can help protect recipients from freezing temperatures.
Residents interested in donating or businesses wanting to serve as collection locations can find additional information through the GLMV Chamber of Commerce .
For questions, organizers can be reached at 847 680 0750 .
Community members are encouraged to donate before the November 14 deadline to help local veterans and their families prepare for winter.