Every wish on Operation Warm’s Wish List tells a story—a story of hope, warmth, and the impact of a simple yet transformative gift. This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to step into the lives of children and families wishing for warmth, confidence, and hope. With 1.2 million wishes waiting to be fulfilled, these stories remind us why your support is more crucial than ever.
A Gift That Transforms Lives
For many children, a brand-new coat or pair of shoes means more than clothing—it represents confidence, pride, and a sense of belonging. Here’s what Wish List applicants have shared about the impact of these gifts:
“Receiving [these] provides a sense of belonging. It allows [kids] to not only weather the rain and cold, but to show up comfortably in spaces where they [may] feel self-conscious. This gift also takes a burden off family members from choosing between…providing a coat for their child [or] funds for groceries or bills.” – 2024 Wish List Applicant
“We are a walking school, so our students do not ride the bus. Appropriate cold weather gear means the difference between coming to school and staying home during Utah winters and bad weather.” – 2024 Wish List Applicant
“The residents we serve choose to go without buying coats, shoes, and other basic items in order to have enough money to pay their rent and basic expenses. Being able to distribute new coats and shoes to residents allows us to put a smile on their faces and restore a bit of their hope for the future.” – 2024 Wish List Applicant
“Our students are thrilled to get a coat or shoes even if they are used. I have students that come to school with blankets wrapped around them. What an ego boost this could possibly make.” – 2024 Wish List Applicant
- “A new pair of shoes will give them the confidence to face the upcoming school year in a positive manner. They will have one less thing on their plates to worry about.” – 2024 Wish List Applicant
Every Child Deserves Warmth
A simple gift can change a child’s outlook on life. These gifts do more than keep children warm—they help them feel seen and valued. They mean:
- Helping kids attend school more regularly, even on the coldest days.
- Playing at recess without shivering in the cold.
- Boosting confidence to participate in class and in social activities.
- Preventing long-term health issues, as ill-fitting shoes in childhood can lead to foot deformities and other problems.
- Giving families one less financial burden to worry about.
Grant a Wish This Giving Tuesday
With 1.2 million wishes on our list, every donation matters. Your support will help bring warmth, confidence, and hope to children who need it most. Together, we can transform lives and create brighter futures for the next generation. Grant a wish today.
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