LAWRENCE COUNTY, Pa. - As the colder months begins to approach, United Way of Lawrence County has partnered with Columbia Gas to sponsor their annual "Share the Warmth" Blanket Drive for families in need.

Community groups, churches, businesses and local schools collect blankets throughout the month to distribute to families who are facing higher utility costs and experiencing challenges heating their homes. 

New blankets can be dropped off at several locations:

  • Busy Beaver in Shenango Township
  • Connerly's Cleaners
  • Cray Youth and Family Services
  • Lawrence County Government Center
  • Lawrence County YMCA and Y-Zone
  • New Castle Public Library
  • PA State Representative Marla Brown
  • Visit Lawrence County 
  • United Way of Lawrence County
  • Busy Beaver in Ellwood City
  • Ellwood Chamber of Commerce
  • New Wilmington Borough Municipal Building
  • Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate
  • Lawrence County Career & Technical Center
  • Neshannock High School 
  • New Castle Jr/Sr High School
  • Shenango High School

The blankets donated will be sorted by students at Shenango High School in December.

Blankets will be distributed to various agencies such as the American Red Cross, Catholic Charities, ARISE, Cray Youth and Family Services, people and families in need and many more.

"Our community has been very generous in donating thousands of blankets to keep our families warm during this winter season," said Gayle Young, Executive Director of the United Way of Lawrence County. 

"We are humbled by the generosity of our employees, the community and the United Way as everyone joins together to donate blankets for this important cause," said Scott Waitlevertch, Manager, Government and Public Affairs, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania. 

Organizations or businesses interested in participating in the event can contact the United Way of Lawrence County through their website, or calling 724-658-8528.

The drive will be underway beginning November 1 and will continue until November 30.