New Coat Program

THE NEED

Did you know that one in six children in the Philadelphia area lives in poverty? Did you know that the federal definition of poverty is a family of four living on an annual income below $27,750? In Pennsylvania, approximately 350,000 children live in poverty, without daily essentials like a warm winter coat. We join forces with local dealerships to serve tens of thousands of children in need each year.

THE PROGRAM

This program began in 2008 with one simple mission: to provide brand-new winter coats to impoverished children in the five-county Philadelphia area. We challenged local new car dealerships to pledge a new winter coat every time a car was sold in September. Their response was heartwarming and has grown each year. Since the program began, we have given more than 575,000 new coats. This is possible thanks to support from participating dealerships and other auto industry supporters that team up every year to be More Than Auto Dealers, working towards the greater good. Donations from the public help us spread the warmth even further.

NEW COAT DISTRIBUTION

We distribute our new coats each year in the early fall. We rely on our partners at the School District of Philadelphia, Chester Upland School District, area YMCAs and non-profit organizations selected by participating dealerships to help get the new coats to local children who need them most. Sorry, we cannot give coats directly to individuals or families.

WHY NEW IS IMPORTANT

Besides relieving a small financial burden for parents or caregivers, the gift of a NEW coat warms the body and soul of children in need. It can supercharge their self-esteem and helps them to arrive to school warm, ready to learn and to receive two hot meals. It reminds them that they are important.

If you would like to help us give more coats and more smiles to local children in need, please click here.