OKLAHOMA CITY (July 8, 2024) – It’s summer now, but for the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation, all eyes are on the upcoming chilly months as the nonprofit kicks off its 2024 Coat-a-Kid campaign. This important program provides new winter coats to OKCPS students, ensuring every child in the district who needs a coat has one to protect them from the cold temperatures.

“A new warm winter coat can make a world of difference in the life of a student,” said Mary Mélon-Tully, OKCPS Foundation President and CEO. “It empowers attendance, offers them the confidence to succeed in school and lets them know that the community cares for them.”

With 92% of OKCPS’ 33,000 students living at or below the poverty line, students’ families work tirelessly to make ends meet and pay necessary bills, but are often unable to afford items like coats. As a result, thousands of kids in the district lack coats to keep them warm, safe and comfortable in the cold winter months.

Because the need is so great, and to make sure that every student who needs a coat receives one, the OKCPS Foundation accepts year-round donations to its Coat-a-Kid program and begins actively fundraising during the summer months.

“We thank our hundreds of loyal supporters who step up to donate to the Coat-a-Kid program every year, and we want to encourage everyone in the community to participate in this year’s Coat-a-Kid fundraiser. Any donation is appreciated and will help us provide thousands of OKCPS children with much-needed physical and emotional warmth,” Mélon-Tully added.

Since the Coat-a-Kid program was established in 2016, the OKCPS Foundation has been able to provide a coat for every OKCPS student in need thanks to the support of generous community partners. In honor of its 40th anniversary this year, and in recognition of this remarkable milestone, the Foundation hopes to make the 2024 Coat-a-Kid campaign the best and most successful one yet.

To learn more about the OKCPS Foundation, its Coat-a-Kid program and how you can help provide critical support for our district’s students, visit okckids.com/coat-a-kid.

###

ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation, celebrating its 40^th anniversary this year,  is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance excellence, advocate for equity and build strong community support for Oklahoma City Public Schools. The Foundation works closely with the district and community to align strategies and priorities for sustained performance improvements for students and staff. To learn more about the Foundation’s focus areas, as well as volunteer and giving opportunities, visit www.okckids.com.

Media Contact

Lisa Riley

LM Media

405-401-3593

lisa@LMmedia.net