Syracuse university Launches Annual Coat Drive, Operation Orange Warmup
Syracuse, NY – Syracuse University’s annual operation Orange Warmup coat drive is underway, offering multiple ways for the campus and wider Syracuse community to donate winter coats and support those in need. The initiative,a partnership with InterFaith Works,aims to provide warm clothing to students and families throughout central new York as winter approaches.
Since its inception in 2022, Operation Orange Warmup has collected hundreds of coats. This year’s drive, organized by the Office of Community Engagement, kicked off during the Saturday, Oct. 18, home football game against the University of Pittsburgh at the JMA Wireless Dome and continues with a campuswide collection through Friday, Oct. 24.
“It’s inspiring to see campus groups come together each year to make a difference. Our partnership with InterFaith Works allows us to extend this support beyond campus to help our neighbors throughout Syracuse as well,” said a University spokesperson.
Donations can be made in several ways: at the Oct. 18 football game via bins at gates A,B,C,D,E,F,M and N; on campus at Hendricks Chapel,the Schine Student Center,goldstein Student Center,and the Nancy Cantor Warehouse from Oct. 20-24; or online through the InterFaith Works wishlist on Amazon.
“Our faculty, staff and students make a significant impact on campus and in our community when they all come together for a cause,” says Jake Losowski, associate director of community engagement. “Whether donating a gently used coat, purchasing a new coat or volunteering, there is an possibility for anyone who wants to make a difference to get involved.”
JMA Dome staff will launder donated coats, and all children’s coats collected will be donated directly to InterFaith Works. Students interested in volunteering at the Oct. 18 football game can register via a form on the Syracuse University website.
A coat selection event for students in need will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Room 308 at the Barnes Center at The Arch; RSVP is required.
