The Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor, today urged Tasmanians to support this year's Winter Coat Appeal by donating a piece of clothing to those Tasmanians who might otherwise go cold this Winter.

Ms O'Connor officially launched this year's appeal this morning, donating one of her own coats and passing on one from the Premier.

"With Winter now upon us, I would urge any Tasmanians to spare a coat or another piece of clothing to help those who are struggling with the lack of secure, affordable housing and enough warm clothing to fend off the Winter chill," she said.

"Last year, we saw almost 2,000 pieces of clothing donated and it would be great to see that target surpassed this year."

Ms O'Connor congratulated not-for-profit youth group Enormity, which is based in Ulverstone, who has organised the appeal.

"It is inspiring to see the dedication and work of the young people in Enormity to increase community awareness of the needs of people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness," she said.

"Enormity started the Winter Coat Appeal in 1997 in the Ulverstone area and, over the years, have been able to get coats donated by Prime Ministers John Howard and Kevin Rudd, fashion designer Collette Dinnigan and AFL legend Kevin Sheedy.

"These young Tasmanians have shown great community spirit by working to help those in need, and a campaign like the Winter Coat Appeal is a great way for Tasmanians to help people who are struggling as the days grow colder."

The 2012 Winter Coat Appeal happens on Saturday 7 July and four donation points will be set up in the North West:

·        3 Manning Point, Devonport

·        24 King Street, Devonport

·        Apex Park, Ulverstone

·        Penguin Information Centre, 78 Main Road, Penguin

Donations can also be made at any St Vincent de Paul's store across Tasmania.