In 2026, we formalized the CARE (Coalition Aid, Relief, and Essentials) Program with the consolidation of the Coalition’s many ongoing methods of providing critical items to people in need. CARE enhances the resources available to the Coalition’s programs and provides immediate help to New Yorkers struggling to survive and to make ends meet. CARE purchases and accepts donations of new essential items like blankets, coats, supplementary food, toiletry kits, and other needs, and supports the other Coalition direct service programs with the direct distribution of these critical items to those who need them most. The CARE Program provides access to basic necessities that some might take for granted: simple things like hygiene essentials, quality school supplies to start the academic year, as well as cold weather gear that can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.
The CARE team also organizes and facilitates all of the Coalition’s drives throughout the year, distributing thousands of brand new backpacks filled with school supplies to homeless children, more than 10,000 toys to children living in shelters during the holidays, and warm coats as the weather turns frigid.
Every day, CARE makes a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable families and individuals across New York City. By providing these critical resources, we ease the daily burden and offer hope when it’s needed most.
Project: Back to School
Holiday Toy Drive
Winter Coat Drive
Corporate Sponsors can help us cover the cost of emergency goods and essentials to support the CARE Program. The sponsorships also let the company publicly demonstrate its commitment to civic responsibility and making New York a more humane and livable city.
The CARE Program distributes more than a half million dollars’ worth of basic necessities to those in need each year.
