For the third year in a row, Together Gloucester is leading Operation Keep Gloucester Warm, a community-wide effort to collect and distribute winter coats, boots, and snow gear to local children, families, and individuals in need — all for free.

Last year, we distributed more than 400 new and gently used coats, along with boots, hats, mittens, and snow pants to our neighbors, young and old, housed and unhoused. With rising costs and cold New England winters, too many of our neighbors face the season without proper protection from the cold.

This year, we’re expanding our reach with more collection sites, local business partners, and volunteers. We’re working with schools, churches, city departments, and neighborhood organizations to make donating easy and to ensure every coat finds a new home. The event culminates in a joyful community distribution day on Saturday, December 6 at Trinity Church, where families can select the items they need in a warm, welcoming environment.

Operation Keep Gloucester Warm reflects what makes our city so special — neighbors looking out for neighbors. Every coat, every act of kindness, and every partnership helps keep Gloucester’s community spirit alive.