Queer Community Brings Winter Relief With Coat and Boot Drive

On January 31, 2026, Erie's queer community reported its largest-ever Warm Coat and Boot Drive, collecting the biggest volume of donations to date and delivering two vanloads and four SUVs of winter items to Community Shelter Services.

On January 31, 2026, Erie's queer community held the Warm Coat and Boot Drive and reported its most successful turnout to date. Organizers said the winter has been consistently cold, which made the donations especially meaningful. Volunteers gathered the largest volume of donations since the drive began and loaded two vanloads and four SUVs with coats, jackets, boots, hats, gloves and blankets. Several LGBTQIA+ and ally organizations also collected items at their own facilities in the weeks before the main event. Key details: - The event took place in Erie on January 31, 2026 and organizers reported the largest volume of donations in the drive's history. - Volunteers transported two vanloads and four SUVs of winter clothing and blankets to Community Shelter Services for distribution to individuals and families in need. - Organizers said this drive involved the greatest number of queer organizations and volunteers working together to date. - Participating groups included Aging With Pride, Erie Gay News, Free Mom Hugs, TransFamily of NW PA, Wabtec's Pride ERG, and several other LGBTQIA+ and ally organizations. - Organizers announced plans for a food drive in May and provided contact information for Michael Mahler at info@eriegaynews.com. Summary: The drive delivered a substantial volume of winter supplies to Community Shelter Services and showcased broad participation from local queer and allied organizations. Organizers said they hope the effort will inspire continued collaboration, and they are planning a food drive in May.