Moscow Public Library has partnered with Unitarian Universalist Church of the Palouse to host Chase the Chill, an initiative that provides winter weather clothing items to the public.

“It’s a project where people can [donate] new, gently used or handmade items,” said Ginger Allen, director of family ministries for the church. “We will place them out in the community for people in need to take them for free.”

Items available include scarves, gloves, hats and socks. Those who want to donate can drop off items at the library or the church.

On a railing circled around a decorative tree at Moscow Public Library are plastic bags filled with donated items available for those in need to take, said Michelle Hugo, Moscow Public Library assistant.

Chase the Chill will continue for the entire winter season until around March or April. This event is a way for the community to provide for those in need of something to keep them warm this winter, Allen said.

“This is a really good hands-on project to help the people in our community,” she said.

Children attending the church’s Sunday school actively participate by wrapping any donations dropped off at the church and taking them to the library.

“It’s a social justice project for our kids,” Allen said. “They learn how to help change the world.”

Chase the Chill is a nationwide project. This is the third year the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Palouse has participated and the second year for the library.

Last winter a couple hundred items were donated, Allen said. Hugo said all items were taken by those in need.

Allen said the library provides an easily accessible venue and is therefore a good place to partner with.

After being approached by the library director, Hugo said she wanted to help because she liked the philosophy of the event and the need it filled in the community.

“We don’t turn anybody away,” Hugo said.