Peterborough, ON [October 21, 2026] – As the cold weather approaches, United Way Peterborough & District and Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes (PATH) are once again bringing the community together through Coats for Community… and More!, an annual initiative that ensures local individuals, families and residents have access to warm winter clothes and essential cold-weather items. Launched today at PATH’s community hub on Lansdowne Street East, this year residents are being encouraged to donate new and gently used winter clothing and gear to help ensure our neighbours are prepared for the cold months ahead.
Originally launched by United Way Peterborough and District as Coats for Kids in 1986, the organization says the program has evolved to reflect the broader needs of the community. For the past three consecutive years, the initiative has been delivered in partnership with PATH, a natural collaboration between the two organizations working to support community members who are experiencing challenges accessing essential resources. Together, United Way and PATH have expanded the initiative beyond winter coats to include a wider range of cold-weather essentials, helping ensure more individuals and families are prepared for the winter weather.
While winter coats remain a central focus of the collection campaign, the initiative recognizes that staying warm requires more than a jacket. Donations of hats, sturdy gloves & mittens, neck warmers, boots, snow pants and other winter essentials are also encouraged.
Launched today at PATH’s location on Lansdowne Street East, this year residents are being encouraged to donate new and gently used winter clothing and gear to help ensure neighbours are prepared for the cold months ahead.
“No one in our community should have to face winter without the clothing they need to stay warm,” said Jason Seguya, CEO of United Way Peterborough & District. “Looking out for our neighbours can start with something as simple as donating a coat or organizing a collection at work. Through our partnership with PATH, those contributions reach people who need them, helping more children, adults and families stay warm and safe through the cold months ahead.”
PATH plays an important role in connecting donated winter items with people who need them, last year more than 2,200 coats and hundreds of other winter essentials were distributed. “Thank you so much to Peterborough community members, faith communities, businesses, service groups and anyone else who contributed to helping keep so many folks warmer and safer last winter!” shared Bev Assinck, PATH program coordinator. “Your contributions of sturdy coats, snow pants, boots, sleeping bags, blankets, hats, gloves and mitts, hand warmers and Tim’s cards made a tremendous difference for so many. We gave coats and other items to many families and individuals, and their gratitude was immeasurable. We look forward to another successful Coats for Community AND More this year.”
Community Collection Day Planned for November 7th
As part of this year’s campaign, United Way Peterborough & District and PATH are planning a community-wide collection day on Saturday, November 7th 2026 at PATH (385 Lansdowne St E, Peterborough, ON K9L 2A3). Residents and community partners are encouraged to donate new and gently used winter clothing and cold-weather essentials both at this event and throughout the winter. Donations will continue to be accepted at PATH on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April, helping neighbours stay warm while cold weather persists.
Betsy MacDonald, Senior Director of Operations at United Way Peterborough & District, concluded the announcement with logistical details about the program. Please see the appendix following this release for program details.
The initiative welcomes participation from individuals, workplaces, schools, service clubs, sports teams and community organizations. Those interested in participating can contact the United Way for more information.
As the community prepares for another Canadian winter, Coats for Community… and More! is a reminder that small acts of generosity have a meaningful impact. By working together, the residents of Peterborough can help make sure their neighbours have access to the essentials they need to stay warm.
