Halton and St Helens VCA and Care UK Charity are calling on local residents, businesses, and community organisations to support this year’s Winter Coat Project, the community recycling scheme helps to make sure people across Halton can stay warm this winter and reduce waste.
An estimated 5,000 coats have been redistributed across the borough over the last 4 years, many of which could have ended up in landfill. Help us make year 5 even more successful.
Donation Stations opened across Runcorn and Widnes from 1 September, with donations being accepted until 16 November 2026.
The project collects good-quality, pre-loved winter coats which are then made available free of charge to people and families across the borough.
All suitable winter coat donations are gratefully received, however this year, there will be a special push for children’s and men’s winter coats,
Sally Yeoman MBE, CEO of Halton and St Helens VCA, said:
“No one should have to face the winter worrying about whether they can afford a warm coat. The Winter Coat Project is a wonderful example of what can happen when our communities come together to support one another. We are especially proud of the environmental impact this project has too."
“We know that many families and individuals are facing increasing financial pressures, and a good-quality winter coat can make a real difference. We’re asking people to have a look through their wardrobes and, if they have a coat they no longer need, consider donating it so that someone else can benefit from it this winter.
“We’re especially keen to receive children’s and men’s coats this year. Every donation, however big or small, can help us make sure more people in Halton can stay warm.”
The project has also received valuable support from Roy Jacks, who has generously donated 100 cardboard boxes to help with the collection and distribution of coats.
Where you can donate
There are Donation Stations at locations across Runcorn and Widnes.
Runcorn:
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Castlefields Community Centre
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Grangeway Community Centre
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Murdishaw Community Centre
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Beechwood Community Centre
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Runcorn Library,
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Halton Lea
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WELL Runcorn
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Community Shop
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Brookvale Community Centre
Widnes:
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St Marie’s Church
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Ditton Community Centre
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Upton Community Centre
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Frank Myler Pavilion
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Widnes Library, Kingsway
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Halton Housing Offices
Donations are open from 1 September until 16 November 2026.
Halton & St Helens VCA is encouraging individuals, community organisations, businesses and local groups to spread the word and help make this year’s Winter Coat Project the biggest and most successful yet.