Business Association Launches Winter Coat Drive In Upper Makefield

WASHINGTON CROSSING, PA — The Upper Makefield Business Association is preparing for the colder weather ahead by launching its annual Winter Coat Drive.

From now through Dec. 4, the association will collect gently used coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for struggling individuals and families, children with disabilities, homeless families, people living in shelters, and families facing displacement throughout Bucks County and the Philadelphia area.

"For many families experiencing financial hardship, homelessness, or displacement, obtaining suitable winter clothing can be another challenge during an already difficult time," said the coat drive organizers. "A gently used coat, warm hat, or pair of gloves can provide essential protection from Pennsylvania's cold winter weather."

The business association encourages residents to look through their closets and consider donating winter clothing that is no longer used but remains in good condition.

A Community Working Together

At the heart of the drive is the belief that meaningful community support begins when neighbors, local businesses, and families work together.

Rather than relying on one organization alone, the UMBA Winter Coat Drive brings together businesses, government, volunteers, and residents, each contributing in their own way.

Local businesses and organizations are providing nine donation locations, making it easier for residents to participate while carrying out their everyday activities.

The drive is being organized by UMBA member Jodie McAllister Alicea, with help from her husband, Al, and their sons, Abel, Silas, and Adrian, who have created festive collection boxes for the participating locations.

"It's easy to forget how much something as simple as a warm coat can mean to a family going through a difficult time," said UMBA member and coat drive organizer Jodie McAllister Alicea. "We wanted to create something that everyone in our community could be part of - families, neighbors, and local businesses working together to help others. If each of us contributes even one item, we can make a real difference."

The coat drive is sponsored by Bull and Hammer Ranch - A McAllister Family Farm, with additional support from participating local businesses and organizations providing collection locations.

The initiative reflects UMBA's commitment to connecting local businesses and residents through volunteerism, charitable giving, and community involvement.

Where to Donate

Residents are invited to donate clean, gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, and scarves at any of the following nine participating locations:

• Upper Makefield Township Building & Police Department, 1076 Eagle Road, Newtown 18940
• Upper Makefield Fire Company, 1221 Taylorsville Road, Washington Crossing 18977
• Colonial Farms, 1108 Taylorsville Road, Washington Crossing 18977
• The First National Bank of Newtown, Washington Crossing Branch, 1121 General Washington Memorial Boulevard, Washington Crossing 18977
• Dominick's Original Pizza of Washington Crossing, 1250 General Washington Boulevard, Washington Crossing 18977
• Dunkin' Donuts, Washington Crossing, 1118 General Washington Memorial Boulevard, Washington Crossing 18977
• Seasons Garden Center, 11069 River Road, Washington Crossing 18977
• eXplore at eXp Realty, 113 Floral Vale Boulevard, Yardley 19067
• Bucks County Racquet Club, 1150 Lord Sterling Road, Washington Crossing 18977

Residents should check individual business hours before dropping off donations.

Every Donation Matters

UMBA President Harry Barfoot said that he hopes the “initiative will encourage people of all ages to get involved, whether by donating a single coat, gathering clothing with family members, or sharing information about the drive.”

The association also encourages local employers to invite their staff to participate. The goal is simple: bring the community together to help provide warmth and comfort to children and families who need it most.

Donations will be accepted through Friday, December 4, 2026.

For additional information about the coat drive, the people it will benefit, and all participating drop-off locations, visit:
uppermakefieldba.org/coatdrive