Boston Launches Annual Winter Coat Drive For Residents Experiencing Homelessness

Monday, November 2, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), and Friends of Boston’s Homeless (FOBH) are announcing the launch of their annual, citywide Winter Coat Drive for residents experiencing homelessness. From November through early February, residents and businesses can donate new winter coats, making sure everyone stays warm and safe in cold weather. This is a simple and tangible way to support the safety and wellbeing of all Boston residents this winter season. New coats can be donated through an Amazon Wishlist or purchased and shipped to Boston Public Health Commission's Woods Mullen Shelter. New, large coat donations can also be dropped off at the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave Boston, MA 02118 on Thursdays from 12 - 2:30 p.m. More details can be found on boston.gov/homeless-services.

“As we approach the colder months, we are working with the Boston Public Health Commission, Friends of Boston’s Homeless and generous partners to help Boston residents stay warm this winter,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Together, we can make sure our most vulnerable neighbors have the care and resources they need to stay safe and healthy throughout the season.”

“Homelessness remains one of the most pressing challenges our city faces, with significant health effects on individuals, families, and our broader community,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “Addressing homelessness requires sustained commitment, compassion, and continued efforts to make homelessness rare, brief, and one-time, while ensuring that our most vulnerable neighbors have access to the care and support they need. We are deeply grateful to our Homeless Services Bureau, Friends of Boston’s Homeless, our community partners, supporting businesses, and everyone who donates. Together, we are making a real difference in providing the care, warmth, and support our neighbors experiencing homelessness deserve.” 

Winter weather poses serious health and safety risks, particularly for people experiencing homelessness. A warm coat can help protect people from freezing temperatures, reduce the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses, and provide essential warmth and comfort during the winter months. In addition to individual donations, community organizations and businesses are also encouraged to participate by organizing their own coat drives and delivering donated coats to the Woods Mullen Shelter. 

For decades, Boston Public Health Commission’s Homeless Services Bureau and Friends of Boston’s Homeless have worked together to help ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness have the resources they need to stay safe and warm throughout the winter. For the past four years, BPHC and FOBH have organized winter coat drives, collecting approximately 400 coats each year for shelter residents.   

“For 40 years, Friends of Boston’s Homeless has partnered with the Boston Public Health Commission’s Homeless Services Bureau to support those most in need,” said Carrie Coughlin, Executive Director of Friends of Boston’s Homeless. “As we look ahead to another winter, a new coat is a simple but meaningful gift that can help someone stay warm, safe, and comfortable. We are grateful to everyone who gives and helps ensure our most vulnerable neighbors have the support they need during the coldest months of the year.” 

BPHC’s Homeless Services Bureau serves nearly 5,000 people each year with emergency shelter and transitional programs, helping residents access services to secure stable housing. In addition to the Winter Coat Drive, the Homeless Services Bureau regularly accepts clothing and other donated items throughout the year.  

During the holiday season, BPHC and FOBH also serve Thanksgiving meals at both the Woods Mullen women’s shelter and the Southampton men’s shelter. In addition, the annual Table of Friends Thanksgiving Feast at TD Garden has brought people together to share a holiday meal, serving approximately 1,000 people each year, for more than 30 years. Through seasonal initiatives and year-round partnerships, BPHC and FOBH remain dedicated to helping neighbors experience warmth, comfort, and dignity during the holidays. 

BPHC’s Homeless Services Bureau is committed to helping individuals with challenges that lead to homelessness and offers a spectrum of care, services, and support to people experiencing homeless in Boston. Through BPHC’s low-barrier shelters, the Homeless Services Bureau uses evidence-based, trauma-informed care and restorative justice to help residents quickly end their homelessness and stay stably housed. Staff provide hands-on job training, housing assistance, and behavioral health services for clients in BPHC shelters while affirming the dignity and human rights of every person.   

To find services for people experiencing homelessness and ways to volunteer with BPHC, visit boston.gov/homeless-services.