In Rochester, NY, the community once again gathered for a beloved tradition: Planet Aid's Annual Free Coat Giveaway. Held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, this heartwarming event brought warmth and comfort to those in need and exemplified the spirit of giving.
This year marked the 12th occasion that Planet Aid hosted the free coat giveaway, in collaboration with the Ibero-American Action League and various local sponsors. The event took place at the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter School, a fitting venue for a day dedicated to supporting the community. This year's collection was impressive, with 10,210 pounds of coats collected, mostly gathered from Planet Aid bins stationed throughout Rochester.
The overwhelming generosity of Rochester residents ensured that nearly 600 attendees could choose from a variety of coats, including options for men, women, and children.
Participants at the event were greeted not only with the warmth of the donated winter coats but also with hot meals, which added an extra layer of comfort. As families browsed through the extensive selection of outerwear, the atmosphere was filled with the joy of giving and receiving.
Shalym Nater Vazquez, the Ibero National League Director of Special Projects, expressed the significance of the event on WHAM, stating, “We want to make sure that families are warm during the winter months. We’ve been doing this for over 12 years, and over the years, we have helped close to 10,000 individuals.” His words echoed the sentiment of many who recognized the coat giveaway as more than just an event, but a vital resource for the community.
The coat drive also served as an opportunity for attendees to be screened for additional services they might qualify for under the New York 1115 Medicaid Waiver. This initiative underscored the commitment of Planet Aid's longtime community partner, Ibero-American Action League, to not only address immediate needs but also to provide pathways to long-term support and stability.
The success of this annual coat drive is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and compassion in Rochester. Over the past dozen years, the event has evolved into a cherished tradition, bringing together diverse community members and organizations united by a common goal: to ensure that no one faces the harsh winter months without adequate protection.
As the day drew to a close and the last attendees left with their newly chosen coats, the sense of community and goodwill lingered in the air. The Planet Aid Annual Free Coat Giveaway once again proved that when people come together with a shared purpose, they can create meaningful change and foster a sense of belonging and warmth for all.