
Providing warmth to children across Boston
Coat Boston and The Holiday Shop are charitable giving programs based on the belief that everyone deserves to have a warm coat during the winter – especially the youngest and most vulnerable in the community.
Since 2009 Coat Boston has provided new winter coats and accessories for children in the Boston Public Schools and to community organizations working with underserved children and adults in Boston.
The Holiday Shop continues a tradition started over 150 years ago by City Mission Society of Boston to provide gifts to individuals and families during the holidays.
These volunteer-run programs are possible due to the generous contributions of individuals, non-profit and private organizations, and religious institutions in the metropolitan Boston area. Donations are collected at our hub and then sorted, packed, and picked up by our partner organizations from Boston.
Over 1,000 new coats, winter accessories and hundreds of gifts are provided each year to Boston children and families in need through over 20 community-based organizations and public schools.
Please support our 2025 goal of collecting and distributing 2,000 new winter coats to over 20 schools and organizations in Boston !
Providing Warmth
Since 2009, Coat Boston has delivered over 1,000 new winter coats, gloves, scarves, and hats annually to children in need.
Spreading Joy
The Holiday Shop, with a legacy of over 150 years, brings holiday gifts to underserved families and individuals in Boston.
Community-Driven
Our programs thrive on the generous contributions of individuals and organizations located throughout Greater Boston.
Our Story
Coat Boston and The Holiday Shop were originally established by City Mission Society of Boston to provide winter coats and holiday gifts to individuals and families in need in Boston. In 2023 City Mission closed its doors after more than 200 years of social justice work on behalf of the residents of Boston.
As City Mission’s outreach programs were absorbed by other agencies, Coat Boston and The Holiday Shop were established as independent programs, operating in space provided by Hancock Church in Lexington. Our programs are volunteer-led and committed to connecting the generosity of donors to the needs of our neighbors in Boston.

We welcome donations of new winter coats, hats, mittens and gloves for ages infant to teen. Gift cards and new toys are also welcomed.
Check out the Donate page for details on items needed and how to donate.