Several local and national non-profit organizations provide free coats and clothing to those in need. Organizations like One Warm Coat partner with local organizations to distribute free coats, while local shelters and community centers, such as Firehouse Ministries and the Salvation Army, operate clothing closets and offer vouchers for free clothing.
Best Places to get Free Coat Donations for the Homeless
Below, you’ll find the best places to get free coats near you.
One Warm Coat
This national non-profit organization provides free coats through a network of over 1,500 local partners, including shelters and schools, across the country. Individuals in need of a coat can use the non-profit locator map on their website to find a participating organization near them. Get help or find a partner organization: https://www.onewarmcoat.org/
The Salvation Army
Many local Salvation Army locations offer clothing assistance programs, including free coats. For example, the Huntsville, Alabama office provides clothing vouchers every 60 days to eligible individuals with identification and proof of homelessness. Contact your local Salvation Army location to confirm their specific programs and hours.
Changing Lives Initiative – Baltimore Community Coat Drive
The Changing Lives Initiative in Baltimore hosts monthly coat and winter clothing drives where people in need can obtain warm coats, scarves, and gloves during scheduled events.
Hearts for the Homeless
Hearts for the Homeless operates over 500 donation bins where coats and clothing can be dropped off for redistribution. Hearts for the Homeless primarily operates in Western New York (WNY) and does not appear to have donation locations in New Jersey. Their donation bins are located throughout WNY to support local programs in the Buffalo area. For more information, you can call their Ministry Center at (716) 877-3536.
Human Appeal USA – Winter Coat Drive
Human Appeal USA conducts a Winter Coat Drive that collects and distributes winter coats to vulnerable families and individuals across the United States. Donations of new or gently used coats help protect people from the cold.
The Empowerment Plan – Coats That Transform Into Sleeping Bags
The Empowerment Plan offers a unique solution: winter coats designed to transform into sleeping bags. These coats are distributed through shelters and partner social service organizations.
Cradles to Crayons – Free Clothing for Children
While primarily focused on children, Cradles to Crayons provides free coats, in addition to other clothing and essential items, to children experiencing homelessness or living in low-income households in cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, and New York.
Coalition for the Homeless (NYC)
Coalition for the Homeless distributes winter items, including coats, gloves, and scarves, to homeless individuals in New York City through its collection drives.
Homeless Shelters
Homeless shelters are one of the best places to get free coats. These shelters distribute donated winter coats, increase clothing support during cold weather, and provide coats along with blankets, gloves, and hats. Some shelters only give coats to their residents, while others serve walk-in clients during the day.
Local Shelters and Community Centers
Homeless shelters, reentry centers, youth shelters, and women’s and children’s shelters often have clothing closets or partner with organizations like One Warm Coat to distribute free clothing, including coats.
Firehouse Ministries in Birmingham, Alabama, operates a clothing closet and hygiene pantry for the local homeless community.
The Dumas Wesley Community Center in Mobile, Alabama, has a clothing closet that provides items free of charge to program participants and the local community by appointment.
Joseph’s Coat in St. Paul, MN, shares donations, including clothing, with those in need.
Soup Kitchens and Homeless Day Centers
Many soup kitchens and day centers offer more than just free meals. They sometimes have donated coats available, distribute them during meal service, and refer people to nearby coat distribution programs. If you need warm clothing or a coat, don’t hesitate to ask; they will likely be able to help you.
Local Non-Profit Organizations
Organizations like the Concord Coalition to End Homelessness often partner with local thrift stores or aid groups (such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill).
Other Local Initiatives
Programs like Project Warmth (in the Kansas City area) and the Lucky Duck Foundation (which distributes sleeping bag-style coats in San Diego) are regional initiatives that provide warmth and protection from the elements. Look for similar local programs in your area.
It’s recommended to call any organization in advance to confirm availability and distribution times.
How to Find Coats for People in Need
- Use the One Warm Coat nonprofit locator: Search for local partners in your zip code for direct assistance or information.
- Contact local shelters: Call them directly to inquire about their coat distribution schedule and requirements.
- Look for coat drives: Check local news or community calendars to find coat drives in your area during the colder months.
Summary
Some of the best places to get free donated coats for homeless individuals include local shelters, Salvation Army centers, non-profit organizations, and community donation centers. These locations often provide coats directly to those in need or accept donations to distribute them.
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