CONCORD – Merrimack County Savings Bank is kicking off the holiday season with its annual Mitten Tree Drive.

From now through the end of December, The Merrimack will be collecting cold weather essentials to help keep residents warm this winter.

“The Mitten Tree is all about giving back to our neighbors in need,” said bank President Linda Lorden. “Every donation helps provide warmth and supports local food pantries.”

New handmade or store-bought mittens, gloves, hats and scarves can be dropped off at any of The Merrimack’s nine locations. The Merrimack will donate $2 for each item collected and will distribute donations to the following organizations:

-Friendly Kitchen in Concord

-Twin Rivers Food Pantry in Franklin

-Bow Food Pantry

-Hopkinton Food Pantry

-Hooksett Food Pantry

-Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter

-The Upper Room Food Pantry in Derry

-White Birch Center in Henniker