Keeping Families Warm: YMCA Partners with WAVY-TV 10 for Coats for Families

21 November 2025
yellow and green coats with blue background

Thousands in our region struggle to stay warm each winter, and sadly, the numbers continue to rise and for over 30 years, WAVY-TV 10’s Coats for Families initiative has been helping those in need by collecting new and like-new coats for all ages and sizes.

A Shared Mission of Caring

At the Y, we believe in strengthening communities through programs and partnerships that meet vital needs. Coats for Families aligns perfectly with this mission, bringing together local businesses, nonprofits, and community members to support neighbors facing hardship.

From November through late December, WAVY collects coat donations at designated drop-off locations. These donations are then cleaned and prepared for distribution. On January 9–10, 2026, families can visit participating YMCAs in South Hampton Roads and Virginia Peninsulas to pick up winter coats during our regular operating hours. Each participating location will have approximately 100 coats available for distribution, ensuring access for those in need.

How You Can Help

The YMCA is proud to serve as a distribution site, but we are not equipped to accept coat donations. If you’d like to contribute, please visit one of WAVY’s drop-off locations by December 29 to donate new or gently used coats.

Where to Find Coats

If you or someone you know needs a winter coat, we invite you to visit one of our participating YMCAs on January 9-10. Each location will have approximately 100 coats for distribution.

For more details about WAVY’s drop-off locations or the YMCA’s distribution sites, visit wavy.com/coats-for-families.