2025 was a mild winter in Colorado Springs. But anyone who lives here knows, despite the warm temperatures, winter is coming. Out east, where Falcon Elementary sits, the plains are cold, windy, and exposed. When winter arrives in full force, a quality coat isn’t a fashion statement—it’s essential.
On Monday, December 9, 260 winter coats were distributed at Falcon Elementary through a partnership between COSILoveYou, Helping Hands Ministries, District 49, and the school.
260 Coats, 260 Kids
Falcon Elementary is a Title 1 school in a more rural part of the county. Like many schools across the Colorado Springs area, families here face real economic pressure.
Weeks before distribution day, school staff offered coats to every family. Not every family opted in, but most did. The family liaison identified students who needed extra support and ordered coats for families who would benefit from the extra help. The Helping Hands team collected size and color preferences for each child. The coats were delivered to Scheels Colorado Springs, where volunteers sorted and labeled each one by classroom and child’s name.
On distribution day, students came to the gym to find the coat selected specifically for them. They tried them on, swapped sizes when needed, and walked out ready for winter.
One parent shared how blessed they felt by the “quality coats that are really nice” offered to their child and the school. These were name-brand winter coats that conveyed dignity and care.
The Village It Required
We’ve embraced the idea that every school needs a village, and this coat distribution is a clear example. It took many hands to make it possible. Helping Hands Ministries coordinated logistics, procurement, and funding. District 49 leaders connected partners across the district. The school’s principal and dean managed on-site logistics. The family liaison identified needs and coordinated with families. COSiloveyou provided volunteers and partnership support.
When weather delays pushed the event from its original November date to December, every partner stayed flexible. The coats still reached students before winter’s harshest days.
No single organization could have done this alone but relationships are what make this kind of work possible. Together, this partnership met a tangible need for 260 students before the holidays.
Does your school need a village—or do you want to join one? We’re working with schools across Colorado Springs to build partnerships that meet real needs and strengthen communities. You can find out more by joining our School Connect Network.