MADISON, Wis. -- More than 40 area churches are working together to keep Dane County residents warm this winter.

The Recycle the Warmth blanket drive was held this weekend. St. Vincent de Paul is accepting new and gently used blankets and bedding, which will be given out to St. Vincent members and those who request help throughout the year.

"The cold weather that we've had lately we've found serves as a good reminder to people that the kind of warmth and comfort that we can take for granted in our homes is not something that everyone enjoys," said Ernie Stetenfeld, of St. Vincent de Paul.

The nonprofit said just a few weeks ago, it just gave out the last donations gathered from last year.

On Sunday, 42 churches around Dane County are also accepting these donations.

This is the 18th year of the blanket drive, organizers said.