Manchester United fans urged to donate coats for struggling families this winter

A simple coat could change a life this winter. With poverty rates soaring, the club's charity is rallying fans to bring warmth to those who need it most.

, and Administrator

2026 March 19 . 7:11 PM

1 min read

The image shows a group of people walking across a snow covered field, all wearing coats and caps.... — The image shows a group of people walking across a snow covered field, all wearing coats and caps. The image is in black and white, giving it a timeless quality.

Manchester United fans urged to donate coats for struggling families this winter

Manchester United Foundation is calling on fans to donate coats for families facing hardship this winter. The appeal comes as the charity continues its work in areas of high deprivation across Greater Manchester, where thousands struggle with poverty.

Over 4,250 coats have already been donated through similar drives in the past two years. Now, with another difficult winter ahead, the Foundation is urging supporters to contribute again.

Donations will be collected at Old Trafford during two upcoming matches. Fans can bring clean adult and child coats to the men's game against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 25 October. A second collection will take place at the women's UEFA Champions League fixture against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday 12 November.

All donated coats will go directly to those in need. Priority will be given to families involved in Foundation projects, partner schools, and local poverty charities across Manchester. The initiative aims to ease the burden on households as temperatures drop. The need remains urgent. In 2023/24, **38% of children in Greater Manchester**—around **262,000**—were living in poverty. The Foundation's work, which reached **over 41,000 young people** in the 2024/25 season, highlights the ongoing struggle in deprived communities. John Shiels, CEO of Manchester United Foundation, has asked fans to step up. He stressed the importance of supporting vulnerable families as winter approaches, ensuring no one goes without essential warmth.

The coat appeal will run during two key fixtures at Old Trafford. Donations will provide immediate relief to families in poverty across Manchester. The Foundation's efforts reflect the growing demand for support as living costs remain high.