News 12 First at Five -- January 6, 2010

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- The past few nights have been very cold for Nathan Louis. But thanks to a helping hand, things are about to get better.

It's part of a new drive by Augusta Urban Ministries -- collecting blankets, coats and space heaters to help bring some relief from the cold.

"It just takes so much to warm it you know, to try to stay warm in a room," Louis said.

And with overnight temperatures dipping into the teens, he isn't alone.

"I sincerely believe that there are people out there that don't have enough heat," says Rick Herring, director of Augusta Urban Ministries. "This could be a life saving opportunity."

Herring says that's what prompted them to start the drive -- targeting homeless, low income and elderly people who need help the most.

"Families are so humble that they won't ask for [help]," Herring says. "And we're feeling that they're really at risk more than any other time because of the extended period of the cold temperatures."

At Augusta Urban Ministries, the warehouse is practically empty. Generally, the time right after the Christmas rush is slow, but instead they're extending their coat closet operation and even partnering with other groups to spread the word.

Augusta Urban Ministries is working with Wesley United Methodist Church in Evans and Columbia County Cares in Appling to collect the goods. Donations can be dropped at any of those three places.

And it's because of those partnerships that they've gotten the word out. Gary Pringle even came on his lunch break to drop off some warm clothes.

"People got big hearts and everyone's got an extra coat or blanket," he said. "I think people will help if they're asked."

And the people at Urban Ministries are counting on it, to help make the winter more bearable for local families -- warming their homes and their hearts.

Herring tells News 12 they will continue the drive for at least the next two weeks, or as long as there's a need. They stress that they have a real need for space heaters, as they are in high demand. They also have a year-long need for bed donations.

If you are in need of some help, or know someone who is, call the Augusta Urban Ministries at 706-722-8195.

And for those interested in donating -- blankets, coats and space heaters can be dropped at any of these locations:

-Augusta Urban Ministries
303 Hale Street, Augusta, GA
(706) 722-8195

-Wesley United Methodist Church
825 North Belair Road, Evans, GA
(706) 869-0888

-Columbia County Cares
1959 Appling Harlem Road, Appling, GA
(706) 541-2834