Manchester United Foundation is asking fans to donate clean adult and child coats at Old Trafford on the day of the men’s team fixture against Chelsea on Sunday 3rd November.

In a repeat of a resoundingly successful initiative debuted last season - when more than 2,000 coats were donated by supporters - fans are again requested to bring coats to Old Trafford, with all items received to be distributed within the local community ahead of the winter period.

All donated coats will leave Old Trafford within days of the Chelsea game, to ensure the generosity of supporters can be felt by young people and families in need as soon as possible. The coats will primarily be donated to those who access Foundation projects.

The Foundation positively impacted the lives of almost 39,000 young people in the 2023/24 season, operating in the areas of highest social deprivation across Greater Manchester – where almost 250,000 children* are living in poverty.

John Shiels, CEO of Manchester United Foundation, said: “Manchester United fans did a wonderful job of helping to support our young people through this initiative last year, donating over 2,000 coats, which were gratefully received by participants at our community projects.

“Sadly, as the adverse effects of rising fuel costs, child poverty and other societal issues show no signs of abating, the need to support young people and families remains incredibly pertinent this year.

“As the club’s associated charity, the Foundation is duty bound to support the local community, and we take great pride in doing that. But any community effort is only enhanced by the contribution of this magnificent fanbase, so we call on you to donate any coats you can this winter - it could make an incredible difference at a time of great need.”

The coat appeal will complement a wider winter giving campaign by the Foundation, including an investment of £100,000 in resources to help young people stay warm. This mirrors last year’s campaign, where more than 22,000 warm clothing items were distributed, in addition to coats donated by supporters.

The winter coat appeal is running for one game only, with fans able to donate a coat both before and after the game.

Supporters are asked to ensure all coats donated are clean, with pockets emptied and all personal belongings are removed before donating. Coats can be donated from three hours before kick-off at signposted donation bins next to the five bag drop locations on site at Old Trafford.

Donations will also be accepted one hour after full-time. All bag drop locations can be found here.