JACKSONVILLE, Florida. – A local nonprofit organization held its annual coat drive Saturday morning to help people experiencing homelessness in Jacksonville.

Hannah’s Hope House, a charity started by 16-year-old Hannah Hall six years ago, collected coats and other personal items for those in need last weekend.

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On Saturday, the nonprofit held its annual distribution at City Rescue Mission.

Organizers said the charity donated more than 300 items to people in need, including coats, shoes, blankets, gloves and toiletries.

Hall started this effort when she was 10 years old to help people who are currently or soon to be homeless.

“It really is a beacon of hope. That’s why I chose this name. It shows that even if you are in the situation you were in, you can’t give up because hope is always there,” Hall said. “I thought since I’m lucky enough to have everything I have, I can reach out to some people who aren’t as lucky as me.”

Beyond the coat drive, Hall is working on another big project.

She said her goal is to open a Hannah’s Hope service center at some point next year as she and those involved with the association search for the right building to purchase or rent.

“For homeless people to come, they can get a hot shower, a hot meal and maybe a place to stay the night. And being able to find a job to be able to get out of the situation that they’re in,” Hall said.

For now, Hall said doing this work is very rewarding.

“It means I’m doing what I was created to do on this earth, which is to help people,” Hall said.

Agape Health was also present at Saturday’s distribution and provided health screenings, including information on stroke prevention.