Operation Warm - Lawson Charitable Foundation

Operation Warm

Meeting a Critical Need

In partnership with Operation Warm, the Lawson Charitable Foundation supported the distribution of new, high-quality winter coats and shoes to children in the Providence area—because warmth is not a luxury; it is a basic need.

Operation Warm is a national nonprofit dedicated to ensuring children have access to brand-new winter coats and shoes, delivered with dignity and care. By working directly with schools and community organizations, they reach children in familiar, trusted spaces—meeting an essential need while reinforcing confidence and belonging. Our partnership reflects a shared belief that when children are warm, they are better able to learn, play, and show up fully as themselves.

As winter tightens its grip on our community—and as we prepare for one of the most significant winter storms in recent years—the importance of this work becomes even more clear. A warm coat and sturdy shoes offer more than protection from the cold. They help children feel safe, confident, and included. They make it possible for students to arrive at school ready to learn, and on snow days, to step outside and simply enjoy being kids.

Warmth, Delivered with Care

Operation Warm worked closely with two schools right here in Providence to identify students who would benefit most from warm, properly fitting winter coats and shoes. As temperatures drop and significant winter weather approaches, together we helped ensure children were equipped with what they need to stay warm, safe, and comfortable during the coldest months of the year.

Through a $15,000 Impact Grant, Operation Warm was able to fulfill Wish List requests from these schools serving local families. In total, 336 winter coats and 264 pairs of shoes were distributed—providing immediate, tangible support to children just as winter tightens its grip on our community.

Harry Kizirian Elementary School
216 winter coats and 144 pairs of shoes
Leviton Dual Language Elementary School
120 winter coats and 120 pairs of shoes

Each coat and pair of shoes was provided new and sized appropriately, reinforcing a sense of dignity and care. More than protection from the cold, these items help children arrive at school feeling confident and included—and ready to learn, play, and participate fully, even on the coldest days.

Amy Mello-Messenger of Harry Kizirian Elementary shared her appreciation for the support, noting that the coats and shoes will help students come to school warm and confident—an essential foundation for learning and well-being during periods of extreme cold.

Our Mission in Action

This partnership aligns with our Critical Needs giving area by addressing an immediate and essential necessity: appropriate winter clothing for children. At the same time, it supports our Children’s Mental Health focus. When basic needs are met, stress and anxiety are reduced, confidence grows, and children experience a stronger sense of belonging—allowing them to fully engage in school, play, and community life.

We are incredibly proud to support this work and grateful to Operation Warm and our school partners for helping ensure that children in our community experience warmth, dignity, and hope—no matter how cold the winter may be.

Learn more about Operation Warm and the amazing resources they provide to our most vulnerable community members.

The Lawson Charitable Foundation was created in 2021 by Cathy and Tom Lawson. The mission of the Foundation is to help those that are working hard to help themselves and others.