City Launches Winter Coat Drive for Homeless
The Boston Public Health Commission and Friends of Boston's Homeless are collecting coats for people experiencing homelessness through early February 2027.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Boston Public Health Commission and Friends of Boston's Homeless have launched a winter coat drive for individuals experiencing homelessness. The drive runs through early February 2027 as temperatures begin to drop.
Why it matters
Winter weather poses severe health risks for the unhoused population, increasing the threat of hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses. The drive aims to provide warm clothing to residents of Boston's shelters during the coldest months.
The joint coat drive has gathered approximately 400 coats annually for four years, while the Boston Public Health Commission Homeless Services Bureau assists nearly 5,000 people each year. The total collection goal for this season was not stated.
The players
Boston Public Health Commission
The city agency responsible for public health programs in Boston, including its Homeless Services Bureau.
Friends of Boston's Homeless
A Boston-based nonprofit organization that works to support people experiencing homelessness in the city.
The details
Donors can purchase coats through an Amazon Wishlist or deliver new large donations to the Woods Mullen Shelter. Drop-offs are also accepted at 794 Massachusetts Ave. on Thursdays from noon to 2:30 p.m.
Timeline
Winter coat drive announced November 2, 2026.
Coat drop-offs accepted Thursdays, noon to 2:30 p.m., at 794 Massachusetts Ave.
Coat drive scheduled to end in early February 2027.
Philanthropy Context
The joint coat drive has run for four years, gathering approximately 400 coats annually for shelter residents. The 2026 effort continues that pattern as the city and its partners again seek donations ahead of the winter months.
Residents and businesses can donate new coats through an Amazon Wishlist or drop them off at the designated Boston locations on Thursdays. Community organizations can also host independent drives and deliver items to the Woods Mullen Shelter.
The takeaway
Donating a new coat before winter sets in can provide direct protection against cold-weather health risks for people without shelter. Even small contributions through community drives help keep shelter residents warm during the coldest months.
What happens next
Coat drop-offs will be accepted on Thursdays from noon to 2:30 p.m. at 794 Massachusetts Ave. through early February 2027.
Further reading
Explore more Boston philanthropy stories and local giving efforts.
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