It was a frozen Denver winter in 1982 when a narrative of selflessness and compassion began to unfold. Amid the icy grip of the season, businesses like Dependable Cleaners and Shirt Laundry Company persevered through the icy season as they always had. However, it was a chance encounter that would set a remarkable chain of events in motion. When employees learned of a customer’s noble endeavor to collect winter coats for those in need, their hearts swelled with inspiration. This profound act of kindness ignited a spark within the local cleaning company, leading them to carry on the charitable mission and provide cleaning services for the donated jackets. And thus, against the backdrop of that frigid winter, Coats for Colorado was born. As the nation’s very first coat drive, the nonprofit forever altered the course of charitable giving and continues to live out its mission today.
Share the Warmth
In this season of togetherness, everyone deserves to stay warm—especially when faced with Colorado’s unpredictable winter weather. In its inaugural year, the organization collected and distributed a total of 750 jackets. Today, the total number of donations has grown to over two million, establishing it as one of the largest coat drives in the country. During a typical season, Coats for Colorado will receive as many as 55,000 donations, all carefully handled by a team of devoted volunteers.
So when your closet gets harder to close and the coat rack threatens to tip over, you know it’s time to donate— the most rewarding way to lighten your load. And for the little ones who’ve outgrown last year’s warm layers, that forgotten collection at the back of the drawer can make a world of difference to a child in need. For many families, bundling up their children during winter can be a burdensome investment, especially considering that kids seem to outgrow their garments with each growth spurt. Your contribution to Coats for Colorado can play a crucial role in ensuring everyone stays warm and safe. Not only does this endeavor speak to the spirit of the holidays but it’s also one that can save a life.
To donate to Coats for Colorado, simply bring new or gently used jackets to one of 19 convenient drop-off locations.
