COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- NFL great and University of Maryland alumnus Shawne Merriman will hold his 22nd Annual Lights On Foundation Coat Drive, taking place at the Maryland vs. Rutgers football game on November 16.

Merriman invites fans to donate new or gently used coats, hats, scarves, and other cold weather gear to support local families in need. As colder months approach, Merriman's Lights On Foundation continues its commitment to spreading warmth and hope.

Volunteers will be on hand to collect gently used coats and other cold weather items at donation bins conveniently located at gates C, F & I beginning at 4:30 p.m. The game is set to kickoff at 6 p.m. but bins will remain in place for donations until the end of the first quarter.

"I'm grateful to bring the Lights On Foundation back to College Park and continue this important tradition with the Terp community," said Merriman. "With each coat, we're helping a family stay warm this winter."

Join Merriman and the Lights On Foundation at the University of Maryland's SECU Stadium and make a difference in the lives of families facing the challenges of winter weather. Your support will help ensure a warmer, safer winter season for those who need it most. Merriman's Lights On Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for youth and to help the homeless. Founded while still a student at UM, Shawne and the Lights On Foundation donated more than 40,000 coats in the past 20 years. Merriman donates time, money and other resources throughout the country by increasing opportunities for children to lead healthy and fulfilling lives through his foundation. By building corporate partnerships within the community, Merriman is able to provide financial assistance to projects focusing primarily on helping the homeless and children in need.