VB Gives Back to Operation Warm
For children in need, something as simple as a warm coat or fitting pair of shoes can make a meaningful difference in their everyday lives. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Operation Warm as our newest VB Gives Back partner.
Through its work, the national nonprofit provides brand-new essentials to youth in underserved communities, equipping them with the clothing they need to navigate their day with comfort, confidence, and security—supporting their physical, social, and emotional well-being.
Since the organization’s inception over 26 years ago, it has served over seven million children across America—and we’re excited to help them reach even more through our partnership this quarter.
Who is Operation Warm?
Operation Warm designs and manufactures coats, shoes, and sports bras, partnering with individuals, community organizations, and corporations to distribute them to those who need them most. By serving kids in Title 1 schools and school districts, Head Start programs, and homeless shelters, the organization helps make these everyday basics accessible to those who might otherwise go without.
Each category has been chosen intentionally, informed by research highlighting just how much of a game-changer access to these essentials—particularly new ones—can be for these children.
Why this work matters
For many kids in need, a brand-new coat may be one of the most significant pieces of clothing they’ll ever receive. Operation Warm sees firsthand that having something new, in their size, and all their own provides so much more than physical warmth—it can instill a sense of security and self-assurance that stays with them at home, at school, and beyond.
When it comes to footwear, the organization has found that 67 percent of children surveyed are wearing shoes that don’t fit, as families simply can’t afford to keep up with fast-growing feet. But with a pair of properly fitting shoes, like those Operation Warm produces, kids can put one foot in front of the other with the confidence to take on whatever the day brings.
Another staggering statistic: By age 14, girls are dropping out of sports at twice the rate of boys. Lack of access to appropriate clothing, including supportive sports bras, can be a significant barrier to participation. In response, Operation Warm launched FLY:FWD, an initiative that empowers young girls by providing them with the physical support they need to stay in the game.
Throughout the quarter, Team VB will be volunteering at schools across New York City to help distribute these essentials to local students. Stay tuned for more from our partnership and how we’re supporting Operation Warm’s work.
Now through the end of December, a portion of every online order will be donated to Operation Warm, supporting its mission to provide warmth, confidence, and hope to children in need.