Coats for Kids campaign launches 32nd Year in Las Cruces, aiming to keep children warm this Winter

Las Cruces, NM(KVIA-TV) — The much-anticipated Coats for Kids campaign kicked off its 32nd annual drive this week, aiming to ensure that every child in Las Cruces stays warm this winter. Organized by Las Cruces Coats in partnership with Las Cruces Public Schools, the initiative plans to distribute over 1,250 brand-new winter coats to students in need before the holiday season.

This year, school counselors and social workers have identified approximately 2,500 elementary school children who could benefit from a warm coat. In response, the organization is rallying support from local residents and businesses to meet this growing need.

A unique feature of the campaign is its lighthearted "Jailbirds" fundraiser. Prominent community leaders, including the mayor, fire chief, and police chief, will be temporarily "locked up" at 1338 Picacho Hills Drive. Each Jailbird must raise bail money—with all proceeds going toward purchasing coats—to be released. Every $20 donation provides a brand-new coat for a child. Donors are encouraged to either help free their favorite Jailbird or, for fun, keep them "locked up" a bit longer by supporting the cause.

With coat purchases scheduled for mid-October, the next few weeks are critical for fundraising efforts. Organizers hope to recruit about 25 Jailbirds this year and are inviting community members to participate or support the campaign in any way they can.

The Coats for Kids program is run by the local nonprofit Love Las Cruces. To get involved, donate, or learn more about the campaign, visit the organization's website or contact them directly. Organizers say every contribution helps ensure that no child in Las Cruces will have to face the winter cold without a proper coat.

LasCrucesCoatsForKids.com