2025 Coat Drive Kickoff
The Kickoff đź’™
Our 37th Annual New York Cares Coat Drive Kickoff at PS4 Duke Ellington set the tone for a season of warmth, generosity, and true New York community spirit.
This year’s kickoff was powered by a remarkable roster of partners who showed up in force.
The FDNY brought unmatched energy — and their two beloved mascots, Hot Dog & Siren, who had kids laughing and dancing all morning long. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage ensured coats and supplies arrived smoothly and on time, while UPS ensured coats were transported smoothly and efficiently across the city.
HOT97/WBLS brought the hype and music to energize the crowd, and our sports partners, BSE Global and the Amazin’ Mets Foundation with Mr. and Mrs. Met, brought smiles, photos, and even more energy to the morning.
The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA) continued their longstanding tradition of supporting the Coat Drive, helping us shine a spotlight on the urgent need for warm coats as temperatures drop.
From volunteers handing out coats to partners engaging with the community, every moment reflected what makes this campaign special: New Yorkers showing up for one another.
Thanks to the dedication of our partners and supporters, we’re heading into the season strong.
"It's an incredibly emotional day. We are so proud of this neighborhood. Being able to provide the families of PS 4 with coats is one less burden they have to worry about. What New York Cares is doing is truly unmatched. Many of these families face real hardships, and this support helps ease their anxiety. When students are cold or worried about what their families can’t provide, it affects their ability to learn. This partnership brings us a step closer to holistic, effective support for our students. We are so grateful to work with New York Cares to make this possible."
