We know that as parents we’ll do anything to make sure our kids feel safe, comfortable, and confident. But for too many children across Massachusetts, even the basics, like clean underwear, aren’t a given. That’s where Cocotree Kids comes in. This incredible local nonprofit is the only organization in Massachusetts solely dedicated to their simple but powerful mission: to provide new underwear to underserved youth for their dignity and security.
Why Underwear? Because while 1 in 3 children in Massachusetts experiences clothing insecurity, underwear is even harder to come by. Unlike shirts or pants, underwear must be new for hygienic (and legal) reasons and it’s rarely donated. That means too many kids are left to wear hand-me-downs that don’t fit, reuse soiled pairs, or go without entirely. It’s more than just uncomfortable; it affects their health, emotional well-being, and even their willingness to go to school.
Cocotree Kids steps in by collecting and distributing brand-new underwear (sizes 2T–16) through schools, shelters, hospitals, foster care programs, and more. They’re reaching kids in 12 of Massachusetts 14 counties. Since 2021, this small but mighty team has distributed 396,000 pairs of underwear, reaching over 56,500 children and counting!
With National Underwear Day coming up on August 5, it’s the perfect time to shine a light on this often-overlooked need and help kids right here in our communities. This year, Cocotree Kids is aiming to raise $10,000, which will provide 20,000 pairs of underwear for 2,800 children. That’s a huge impact and it’s easy for all of us to be part of it.
How can you help?
- Donate New Underwear : All sizes (2T–16) are welcome and needed and can be purchased off Amazon or dropped off at Rina’s Studio in Wellesley
- Make a Financial Gift: Just $35 provides underwear for 10 children
- Host a Collection Drive: Perfect for schools, teams, classrooms, or neighborhoods
- Spread the Word: Share with friends, coworkers, or your school community
- Encourage your kids to get involved: Cocotree Kids is all about inspiring youth to give back too
At NWN Moms, we believe in lifting up our neighbors and at the end of the day, every child deserves to feel clean, confident, and cared for. Supporting Cocotree Kids is a small way to make a truly big difference.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit www.cocotreekids.org and follow @cocotreekids on Instagram.
