At first glance, a coat or a pair of shoes might seem like a simple gift—something that kids outgrow every few months. But for more than 1 million children who are currently on our Wish List hoping for warmth, these items are life-changing. As the weather turns colder, the demand for new coats and shoes becomes more urgent. Operation Warm is dedicated to meeting this need, and here’s why your support matters now more than ever.
Why Coats and Shoes Are More Than Just Clothing
For many of the children we serve, walking to school without proper winter gear means enduring freezing temperatures. A warm coat doesn’t just shield them from the cold—it allows them to get to school safely, focus in the classroom, and ease a burden for their families. Studies show that access to proper clothing, like warm coats, directly impacts school attendance. In fact, children from low-income families, who often lack winter clothing, are more likely to miss school during the winter months. This is critical because poverty is correlated with chronic absenteeism, which can lead to poorer educational outcomes and, ultimately, higher dropout rates.
Similarly, shoes are essential for healthy development and participation in activities. Unfortunately, about 67% of kids wear shoes that are too small, which can lead to long-term foot problems. Having a pair of well-fitting shoes means kids can run, play, and participate without discomfort. This simple gift can be the key to building self-confidence and ensuring kids stay active, engaged, and healthy.
The Impact of a Simple Gift
Last year, Operation Warm provided 1 million brand-new coats and shoes to children across North America. Yet, the need continues to grow as economic challenges put pressure on families. Many caregivers are forced to choose between essential expenses like rent or groceries and buying new coats or shoes. These items, which may seem like minor needs, actually have a profound impact on a child’s daily life. According to feedback from the schools we serve, receiving a new coat or pair of shoes can mean the difference between coming to school and staying home on a frigid day.
Imagine a child, previously trying to get through a cold morning with just a blanket wrapped around them, receiving their very own brand-new coat. The warmth, the confidence, and the hope that this small gesture brings can be transformative—not just for the child but for their entire family. As one of our beneficiaries said, these gifts restore dignity and hope, showing families that they are not forgotten.
How You Can Help this Giving Tuesday
You can be part of the change in many ways: donate directly to provide new coats and shoes —every donation up to $100,000 will be matched, doubling your impact! You can also partner with us to support communities, start an employee engagement program for a meaningful volunteer experience, host a fundraiser to rally your community, or spread the word on social media to inspire others.
Because no child should have to brave the cold without a warm coat—or miss out on playtime because their shoes don’t fit.
And when you give a gift of warmth, this is the impact that’s made on a child living in need:
"[New Operation Warm coats and shoes] would mean the world to our kiddos. Not having personal transportation, most of our students walk to school no matter the weather. They will have the chance to be kids at recess instead of trying to find the sun and shivering outside." - 2024 Wish List Applicant
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