Caring Causes - One Warm Coat

I had a chance to interview Patti Zappa, Executive Vice President of One Warm Coat about an overlooked yet vital part of back-to-school preparations that not only ensures children are ready for the new academic year but also fosters empathy and social responsibility. Since 1992, One Warm Coat has facilitated 49,000 coat drives across the country, collecting 8 million coats that have been distributed through more than 1,500 nonprofit partners.

As summer fades and anticipation of a new school year looms, parents are busy with the usual preparations. Buying new school supplies, scheduling haircuts, and adjusting sleep schedules are the obvious tasks on the back-to-school checklist. However, there’s a crucial element that can be added to this annual ritual; an opportunity to teach our children about the power of giving back. Parents should not just reset their routines and refresh their children’s wardrobes but also consider donating outgrown or unused coats for a worthy cause. These donations to One Warm Coat will be used to warm children and adults in need this winter.

37 million or 11% of all Americans now live in poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities. That includes 11 million children according to the Children’s Defense Fund which adds that childhood poverty plays an instrumental role in impairing a child’s ability and capacity to learn, build skills, and succeed academically.

This donation approach doesn’t just serve the people receiving the coats; it’s about fostering empathy in our children and demonstrating to them how their small acts can have a big impact on the world around them. One Warm Coat is committed to making this valuable lesson a part of the back-to-school routine.

How can winter clothing affect a child's education?

In the United States, a staggering 1 in 6 children live in poverty, a statistic that underscores the harsh realities many children endure. According to the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE), during the 2020-2021 school year 1.1 million students experienced homelessness, representing 2.2% of the overall student population in public schools.

When it comes to basic needs, winter clothing plays an essential role in a child’s education. Children who don’t have adequate shelter from the elements are more susceptible to illness, leading to school absences that can subsequently hinder academic performance. And when a child is constantly cold, their focus and concentration in the classroom can suffer, impacting their ability to engage with learning material.

Not only does a coat enable a child to commute safely to and from school each day, it makes it possible for them to safely play outdoors. Recess and physical activity are vital parts of childhood development that should not be missed due to the lack of appropriate outerwear.

One Warm Coat’s mission is to provide children with free coats, ensuring they are physically comfortable, healthy, and ready to learn. It’s a simple act of kindness that has a big impact.

What kind of impact do donations have?

Donations of winter coats have an immediate, tangible impact and alleviate the financial burden for families struggling to provide adequate outerwear for their children. This assistance can free up resources that can then be used for other essential needs, such as food, housing, and education-related expenses. At One Warm Coat, we see the impact of receiving a free coat manifest in many different ways – from improved school attendance to elevated self-esteem.

Why is it important for families to engage in charitable acts?

Getting involved in acts of kindness, such as cleaning out closets at home and donating gently worn clothing, teaches children about empathy, compassion, and the importance of helping others. When we encourage kids to help, we instill the values of giving back and supporting the community from a young age. Early exposure to these kinds of experiences help shape children into well-rounded and socially-conscious adults.

Seeing families come together through volunteering is so heartwarming. Working together to share warmth with their neighbors is a great opportunity for families to bond.

How can volunteering and giving encourage empathy and community bonds?

When people donate their time and resources, they witness the positive change they can make in others' lives. By rolling up your sleeves and diving in, you’re not just throwing good vibes out there – you’re actually making someone’s day better and that’s a big deal.

In addition, shared volunteer experiences bring people from diverse backgrounds together – connections are made, friendships are born, and communities are made stronger. Ultimately, volunteering and giving create a ripple effect of empathy, compassion, and unity that benefits the community as a whole.

Learn more about holding a coat drive at onewarmcoat.org.