Coat Drive for. Local School Children

Rotary Clubs Unite to Warm Local School Children This Winter
Branchburg and Somerville Bridgewater Rotary Join Forces for Coat Donation Drive
Rotary Clubs Launch Collaborative Coat Drive for Community Schools
Two local Rotary Clubs-the Rotary Club of Branchburg and the Rotary Club of Somerville Bridgewater-have teamed up to launch a heartwarming initiative that will provide coats and winter accessories to school children in need. The project aims to deliver three to four hundred items to students across the community, ensuring children stay warm as temperatures drop.
Grant Funding Supports Local Partnership
The Branchburg Rotary Club recently secured a matching grant to help fund the coat donation project. In a spirit of collaboration, Branchburg will share these resources with the Somerville Bridgewater club, allowing both organizations to extend their reach and maximize their impact. The grant enables the clubs to purchase quality coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for children who might otherwise go without during the winter months.
Schools Play Key Role in Identifying Students
Recognizing the importance of discretion and student dignity, both Rotary clubs have coordinated with school administrators to identify those most in need. Guidance counselors and teachers have been alerted to the program and are working together to select students anonymously. Schools are supplying the essential details—gender, age, and size-without revealing names, ensuring that help is given without stigma or embarrassment.
Distribution Process Ensures Timely Delivery
Rotary club members will soon begin purchasing and packaging the coats and winter accessories based on the information provided by the schools. Once assembled, the items will be delivered directly to the schools, where staff will distribute them to the selected children. This process is designed to be seamless and respectful, with Rotary volunteers working closely with educators to ensure every child receives the right size and style.
Making an Impact: Hundreds of Children to Benefit
The collaborative campaign’s goal is to distribute between 300 and 400 coats and winter accessories before the coldest weather arrives. By leveraging grant funding and volunteer efforts, the clubs hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local students and their families. The initiative reflects the Rotary commitment to service and community betterment.
Community Response and Future Hopes
School officials have expressed gratitude for Rotary’s ongoing support. The clubs hope that their partnership will inspire others to join the cause and spark future collaborations. As the campaign gets underway, both Rotary clubs remain dedicated to ensuring that every child in need receives the warmth and care they deserve this winter.
The harsh reality is that the number of coats currently available barely scratches the surface of what’s needed to keep our children warm as they wait for the school bus or walk to and from school. The Rotary Club’s outreach to local school administrators has revealed a much greater need than anyone anticipated. In one district alone, with approximately 1,700 students, a staggering 73% come from families who rely on social services. With the recent government shutdown and the rising cost of food, these families are facing even greater challenges than before.
We would like to reach out to our community. Businesses, organizations, and individuals can make a real difference. If you are able to contribute to this coat campaign, you can go to our website www.rotarycoats.com or contact the Rotary help line at 908-526-3456. Every donation, no matter the size, will help ensure that no child faces the cold without a warm coat this winter.
Rotary is an international organization dedicated to humanitarian service. The Rotary Club of Branchburg meets every Wednesday morning at 7:30 AM at Stoney Brook Grille on Rt 28, Branchburg. The Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater meets every other Thursday at Somerville Elks Lodge 1068 in Somerville. If you are interested in joining Rotary or learning more about how you can help, walk-ins are welcome at meetings. You can also leave a message on our help line at 908-526-3456.
Together, we can make a difference-one coat, one child, one act of kindness at a time.

Date and Time: On Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:00 - Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:00

Category: Community | Fundraisers