FOX6 News is inviting the community to take part in its 2026 Coats for Kids drive, which will collect donations from Nov. 2 through Dec. 6. The effort aims to keep children warm through the Wisconsin winter, one coat at a time.
Organizers are asking for coats in all sizes. Children-sized coats are needed for younger kids, while adult-sized coats are wanted for teens and older children. Both new and gently loved winter coats are accepted. Used coats must be in good, wearable condition, with working zippers and all of their buttons.
Every donated coat will be cleaned by ITUAbsorbTech and then delivered to The Salvation Army, which will handle distribution.
The drive is only seeking good, warm winter coats that can handle whatever Wisconsin winters bring. Sweatshirts, hoodies and spring jackets should not be included in donations.
People who do not have a coat to give can still help by making a secure online monetary donation to FOX6 Coats for Kids. According to the organizers, all dollars raised will be used to buy new coats at wholesale prices.
Racine residents have three drop-off options at Landmark Credit Union branches: Racine Grove at 1931 Grove Avenue, Racine Rapids at 3413 Rapids Drive, and Racine Washington at 6219 Washington Avenue. In nearby Kenosha, a Steinhafels Furniture location at 7001 118th Avenue is also accepting coats.
Landmark Credit Union has dozens of other collection sites across southeastern and south-central Wisconsin. They include branches in Bay View, Brookfield, Burlington, Cudahy, Franklin, Glendale, Greenfield, Madison, Mequon, Muskego, New Berlin, Oak Creek, Waukesha, Wauwatosa, West Allis and West Bend, among other communities. The Landmark headquarters at 555 S. Executive Drive in Brookfield is a drop-off point as well. Steinhafels Furniture stores in Waukesha, Greenfield, Menomonee Falls and Oak Creek are also participating.
Anyone interested in organizing their own collection can consult the 2026 Coats for Kids information packet, which includes guidance on holding a drive and tips for using social media. Free posters to promote a collection are available by emailing [email protected]. Requesters should say how many posters they need and include a complete mailing address.
