BUFFALO — M&T Bank has announced its Gift of Warmth campaign, the region’s longest-running warm clothing collection program, will return again this year, running through Jan. 8.

At all of M&T’s 64 area branches, Western New Yorkers can donate new gloves, mittens, scarves, hats and coats for local children and adults.

“As the region continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, many families are experiencing economic hardships that may force them to make difficult financial decisions and prioritize other needs ahead of purchasing necessary winter clothing to stay warm in the months ahead,” said Jim Jarosz, M&T Bank Group Vice President for Retail Banking in Western New York. “At a time like this, we can’t let our neighbors bear the brunt of Buffalo’s cold alone. We’re encouraging the City of Good Neighbors to come together once again to make a difference through the Gift of Warmth campaign.”

This year, the Gift of Warmth turns 35 years old. In 1985, M&T Bank employees held the first campaign to encourage their co-workers to donate warm outerwear for families served by The Salvation Army. It has now grown into a community-wide initiative that collects thousands of winter clothing items every year.

As in previous years, M&T will work alongside The Salvation Army and the Buffalo Bills to drive the success of the campaign. The Salvation Army will facilitate the delivery of donated goods to local families in need, and the Bills plan to execute creative promotional efforts to urge the community to get involved.

Donations can be dropped off at any of the 64 M&T branches throughout Western New York. Branches in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties are participating. Most branch lobbies are open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and customers now have the option to make appointments if preferred. To find the nearest branch and its hours of operation or to book an appointment, please visit https://locations.mtb.com.