This year the Boston Housing Authority partnered with Operation Warm, the City of Boston, and Boston Public Schools to distribute new winter coats to more than 3,000 children aged 3-12 who live in Boston Housing Authority developments.

Since January, over 10 communities, including Ruth Barkley Apartments, Mildred Hailey, Charlestown, and Mary-Ellen McCormack in South Boston, have held distribution events to give families the opportunity to receive free coats.

 “We have a big family, so it was very helpful to be able to receive free winter coats and make sure everyone was ready for the winter” said one Maryellen McCormack resident who wished to remain anonymous. “It just leaves us with one less thing to think about and lifts a big financial burden off of our shoulders.”

Along with coats, some distribution sites provided families with free at-home covid tests.
“It was a wonderful experience to interact with the residents on a more social basis. Since COVID, our interaction with residents has been mostly on a professional level” said Mary-Ellen McCormack Manger, Isabel Hastie. “I myself, adults and kids enjoyed the event. Everyone loved the coats, it was nice to see everyone happy.”

Thanks to Operation Warm, starting in March, a donation of 200 pairs of shoes is being distributed to BHA families in need.