Warm Your Hearts this Winter
We're committed to serving the vulnerable families of Hampton Roads. This initiative aims to provide new, warm coats to over 500 children in need. By distributing coats to these children, we're not just keeping them warm during the winter months; we're also alleviating a portion of the financial burden on their families. This support can be instrumental in preventing poverty-related issues that put 49% of them at risk of becoming involved in the child welfare system. Our coat drive program is not just about clothing; it's about empowering families, providing them with the resources they need, and ultimately strengthening our community. Together, we're making a significant impact, not only in terms of warmth but also in fostering hope and resilience among these children and their families.
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Register your Org
Simply complete this form to let us know you'd like your church or business to participate in this effort to stand with vulnerable kids and families in this critical season.
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Make your pledge
Each month we serve more than 500 children. Our goal is to provide each of them with a coat this winter. We're asking each org to commit to providing just 30 new coats.
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Collect your coats
On November 12 (Stand Sunday) we'll officially launch our Coat Drive and will continue collecting through December 10. Just in time for Christmas.
More than just a warm coat
Your participation tells families in your community that you're with them in very practical ways. It pushes back against the isolation so many families are feeling. It keeps families on the brink of fracture safely together. It brings stability, security, connection, and hope to every home represented.
Stand Sunday Media Kit
Download media assets to support your communication of Stand Sunday and the Coat Drive.
Cold is Coming
Spread Warmth and Love this Season with our Coat Drive
Join us in giving the gift of warmth this winter by inviting your church to collect new coats for our annual Coat Drive. For more than 500 children on the Greater Peninsula, a new coat means more than just staying warm—it means being able to play outside, attend school, stay healthy, and enjoy all Coastal Virginia winters have to offer. Your donation can make a difference in a child's life, and we thank you for your support.
Coat Drive runs from November 12 through December 10
Participating Locations
Click any of the logos below to view the organization’s website
FAQ
The Answers You Need
Of course! 30 is the minimum ask we’re making for each participating church, but if you’d like to provide more, let us know and we’ll match you with requests. If you meet your goal quickly and want to add more, just reach out to our team!
Is 30 a fixed number? Can we do more?
Who would say no to that?!?! Yes! We’ve got shopping volunteers who can help facilitate that on your behalf.
If we don’t have the ability to shop but want to contribute financially, can we participate this way?
The profile cards included in your kit will have the age, gender, size, and favorite color of the child you’re shopping for.
How will we know what to buy?
Coats collected for the coat drive should be new. Providing new coats ensures that we offer the children and families we serve high-quality warmth to last them through the winter months. New coats are a tangible way to show our care and support for their well-being, and it aligns with our value to assign the highest dignity to every person we serve.
Should coats be new or can you accept used?
Great question! We’d love it if you could deliver them to our office at 1458 Todds Lane, Hampton VA 23666 (in the First Christian Church building). You can bring them to us anytime before December 12. If you aren’t able to make that deadline, please let us know as soon as possible.
How and when should we get the coats to ECHO?
Due to the number of participating churches, there will be limited opportunity for this. If this is something that’s a high priority for you, please let us know so we can plan accordingly.
Can our church participate in the coat distribution as well?
No worries. We understand that things don't always go to plan. If your church or organization is in the position to do so and would like to financially close the gap, we welcome it. You may make a monetary donation to our Coat Drive Fund or someone from your team can shop for the remaining need. This is not required, but if you're able, we are grateful. Whatever you choose to do, please let us know your plan.
What if we don't collect the full amount we pledged?
Coat Drive Media Kit
Download media assets to support your communication of Stand Sunday and the Coat Drive.