Winter weather in Nebraska brings hardships to the homeless, but once again, a familiar organization is stepping in to bring some warmth and relief from the cold to those who need it most. During the month of October, all four Lincoln YMCA locations will be participating in a coat drive to benefit People’s City Mission (pcmlincoln.org). In just three years, over 8,500 coats have been collected thanks to the generosity of YMCA members and the Lincoln community at large.

Community members that donate a new or gently used coat will receive a free pass to “Try the Y” for a week, which will be valid through the end of the year. Current YMCA members who donate coats will also have a chance to win a Free Y Membership for 2025!

“Nebraska winters can be especially challenging for those experiencing homelessness, and once again, we are committed to providing support through our annual coat drive,” shared Renee Yost, President & CEO of the Lincoln YMCA. “This effort is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community, and we are proud to partner once more with People’s City Mission to make a meaningful difference.”

The drive will take place October 1-21, with a kick-off coat distribution at People’s City Mission’s Help Center, starting at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 8.

Drop off coats at the following locations:

  • Cooper YMCA – 6767 S. 14th St.
  • Copple Family YMCA – 8700 Yankee Woods Dr.
  • Fallbrook YMCA – 700 Penrose Dr.
  • Northeast YMCA – 2601 N. 70th St.

Additional drop-off locations, as well as more information about the YMCA Community Coat Drive, can be found at YMCALincoln.org/events.