January 20, 2026 -
BURLINGTON, VT (WCAX) - Vermont Federal Credit Union is teaming up with WCAX once again for the Great Vermont Coat Drive. Vermont Federal Credit Union is teaming up with WCAX once again for the Great Vermont Coat Drive. Collected coats will be provided to local non-profit organizations, which will then distribute them across the state, ensuring that Vermonters in need receive the warmth they deserve this winter.
As a Credit Union, Vermont Federal is all about people helping people, with a purpose of helping Vermonters prosper no matter where they may be on life’s journey. The Great Vermont Coat Drive is an invitation for all of us across the state to come together and wrap our neighbors in warmth, offering a little extra comfort and care to those who need it most this winter.
“We are actively involved because we live in our communities. For us, it’s personal that we build healthy communities, said Jean Giard, CEO of Vermont Federal Credit Union. “We have started this coat drive because there’s a big, big need out there for warm coats in the cold Vermont weather. It’s not just a coat. It’s caring. It’s caring for those individuals who are unable to buy a coat, and it’s caring for those individuals who are struggling to put food on the table. Vermont Federal cares about our communities because we live and work in those communities. There’s a great need out there, and we can help.”
The Coat Drive is one of many community events and charitable activities Vermont Federal Credit Union supports. In 2025, Vermont Federal Credit Union employees dedicated more than 2,400 hours to supporting communities throughout Vermont, volunteering at local nonprofits, participating in events, and lending a hand wherever they were needed.
“It’s great to work here at Vermont Federal Credit Union because of the importance that we put on community. It’s a great, rewarding environment where we can make a difference for people,” said Peter Winch, VP of Marketing at Vermont Federal. “I think the Coat Drive is a great example of that. If you think about our membership and the WCAX viewers, there’s a real opportunity here. If everybody were to donate one coat, could be adult size, could be children’s size, whatever it might be, we could make a major impact on families in Vermont.”
“Many hands make light work, which is why finding a partner like Vermont Federal Credit Union is so exciting,” said Jay Barton, Vice President and General Manager of WCAX-TV. “The Great Vermont Coat Drive is about sharing warmth from family to family across Vermont. Knowing that this partnership will benefit local organizations supporting children, families, and other vulnerable Vermonters, we are certain this will make a real difference in hundreds or even thousands of lives.”
If you are interested in participating, please bring any size new or gently used coat to any of Vermont Federal’s eight branches. Drop-off locations are listed below. Donate today and help bring warmth to a family in need this winter.
