It's November and winter isn't far off, so Stamford-based Americares is collecting winter clothes for those in need.

Americares is asking for new hats, gloves and sweatshirts. The items will be given to patients who use Americares free health clinics in Stamford, Norwalk, Danbury and Bridgeport.

Americares says a variety of men's, women's and children's sizes are needed for the clinic's adult patients and their children ahead of the winter season.

The clinics have provided health care to low-income, uninsured area residents since 1994. Americares says the clinics have helped approximately 28,000 Connecticut residents.

Items can be dropped off from now through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Americares headquarters on Hamilton Avenue in Stamford.