New Mexico Launches 37th Annual KOATs for Kids Drive

The statewide initiative collects new winter coats for children in grades K-12 to ensure preparedness for colder weather.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Philanthropy

Screen-print poster illustration of a winter coat on a wooden chair with desert mountains in view, representing a community clothing drive. — The 37th annual KOATs for Kids drive has launched across New Mexico, collecting new winter coats for students in grades K-12. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Organizers have kicked off the 37th annual KOATs for Kids drive, a statewide effort to collect new winter coats for students. The program provides essential winter clothing to children in grades K-12 across New Mexico public school districts.

Why it matters

The annual campaign ensures children have access to necessary winter gear as temperatures drop across the region. By sourcing new items, the drive aims to support students in need throughout the colder months.

The drive serves students in grades K-12, covering an age range of 5 to 18. This marks the 37th year the organization has operated the statewide collection program.

The players

KOATs for Kids

This is a long-standing philanthropic initiative dedicated to providing winter clothing to students across New Mexico.

The details

Donors are asked to provide only new coats, which can be dropped off at designated participating business locations throughout the state. Alternatively, monetary donations are accepted to fund the purchase of new apparel, while parents can request assistance directly through school counselors.

The annual collection drive concludes on November 22, 2026.

Market Landscape

The KOATs for Kids initiative follows a pattern established by long-standing school-based clothing assistance programs in New Mexico. This effort reflects a broader regional trend of community-led charity aimed at closing gaps in essential resource access for public school families.

New Mexico families in need can secure winter clothing by reaching out to their local school counselors. Residents looking to contribute can participate by dropping off new coats at participating local businesses or providing monetary donations.

The takeaway

Donors must remember that the drive only accepts new coats to ensure quality for all recipients. Families seeking assistance should contact school staff early to coordinate distribution before the collection period ends in late November.