🎉 Update, October 2026: This project is fully funded! Thank you to everyone who gave and shared. Mrs. O'Hara's students in Buffalo will have warm coats, hats and mittens this winter. Want to help another classroom? See the violins for young musicians in Monterey, where donations are still being matched 2X.
In Buffalo, New York, winter means freezing temperatures, lake-effect snow, and wind that cuts right through you. Now picture walking to school in that weather without a proper coat, hat, or gloves.
A teacher at an elementary school in Buffalo sees it happen. Nearly all of the students at her school come from families with low incomes, and buying new winter clothes for growing children every year can be hard. She describes her students as resilient, caring, and eager to learn, and she wants every one of them to arrive at school warm, comfortable, and ready for the day.
The chance they need
Her project on DonorsChoose requests kids' hooded puffer jackets, warm winter beanies, and knit mittens to keep on hand at school, so any student who needs them can stay warm all season.
- Still needed: about $142 when we featured it (October 21, 2026)
- Good news: donations are currently being matched 2X
- Deadline: must be fully funded by February 10
This is one of those chances where a small gift can finish the whole project.
Ways you can give this chance
- Give any amount on the project page. Right now it counts double.
- Share it with friends and family, especially anyone with Buffalo roots.
- Help close to home. Many schools and shelters near you welcome new or gently used kids' coats this time of year. Clean out a closet and ask a local school counselor what they need.
- Love to knit or crochet? Warm hats and mittens are wonderful handmade gifts for schools and shelters.
Chances.org doesn't collect money for this project; giving happens directly on DonorsChoose, which sends the items to the school. Amounts change quickly, so please check the project page for the latest details, and check before you give to any cause.
See all Chances Needed, or find more ideas in 32 Kindness Ideas for Kids and Families.