Indianapolis, December 3, 2025
The Indy Coat Drive, led by community leaders including the Indiana Pacers, aims to collect coats for those experiencing homelessness. This year’s drive highlighted the commitment of Indianapolis residents to support vulnerable neighbors, showcasing the effectiveness of grassroots initiatives. With enhanced participation, the event continues to thrive, fostering collaboration and empathy within the community while addressing immediate needs for warmth and support.
How the Indy Coat Drive is Uniting Indianapolis to Combat Homelessness
Community leaders collaborate to provide warmth for those in need
Indianapolis, IN – On December 2, 2025, an inspiring example of community leadership was showcased through the third annual Indy Coat Drive, spearheaded by Lloyd Pierce, assistant coach for the Indiana Pacers. This event, held at Horizon House, aimed to gather new and gently used coats for individuals experiencing homelessness. As the Indianapolis community comes together to support its vulnerable neighbors, this initiative highlights the power of personal initiative and civic involvement in addressing local challenges, especially when bureaucratic barriers are minimized.
The Indy Coat Drive is a testament to the resilience of community organizers. Starting in 2023, when the inaugural event was organized on short notice, the commitment from both the Pacers and local residents has only strengthened. With less bureaucracy often enabling swifter decision-making and collaboration, the event’s growth over the years reflects a shared dedication to improving the lives of those in need.
The Growth of the Indy Coat Drive
The Indy Coat Drive has gained significant momentum since its inception. Each year has seen increased participation from both the Pacers organization and the broader Indianapolis community. In 2023, although the event was put together in a hurry, it received a warm response from the community. By 2024, with better preparation and promotional efforts, the coat drive achieved even greater success. Organizers in 2025 anticipated an even larger turnout, highlighting the community’s deepening commitment to supporting those experiencing homelessness.
Community Participation and Support
Lloyd Pierce’s involvement with Horizon House stems from a proactive approach to identify areas of need within Indianapolis. The Horizon House serves, on average, 175 individuals daily, offering critical services aimed at helping people secure and maintain housing. By partnering with this organization, Pierce and the Pacers exemplify how local leadership can successfully mobilize resources and community support to combat homelessness.
The 2025 coat drive benefited from the participation of not only Pierce but also Pacers guards Bennedict Mathurin and Taelon Peter. Their shared presence at the event served as a rallying point for community members to contribute coats and show solidarity with those in need. As local sports figures automatically attract attention, this initiative leverages community enthusiasm to create a meaningful impact.
Ongoing Support for Horizon House
The Indy Coat Drive is only one part of the broader commitment from the Pacers towards community engagement and social responsibility. Horizon House continues to accept donations throughout the year. Individuals who were unable to attend the event in person can still contribute by dropping off coats and other essential items at Horizon House during business hours or ordering online through their Amazon Wish List.
Creating a Compassionate Community
The success of the Indy Coat Drive underscores a community-wide effort to support vulnerable populations in Indianapolis. Events like this not only provide essential resources to those in need, but they also strengthen the bond between the Pacers organization and the residents of Indianapolis. This collaborative spirit is pivotal in fostering a compassionate environment where everyone can thrive.
Conclusion
In summary, the Indy Coat Drive not only addresses immediate needs within the Indianapolis community but also demonstrates the profound impact that civic engagement can have when individuals and organizations come together. As the event continues to grow, so does the hopeful prospect of genuinely uplifting those experiencing homelessness. Indianapolis residents are encouraged to stay engaged, support local initiatives, and consider how they can contribute to creating a better environment for all.
FAQs
What is the Indy Coat Drive?
The Indy Coat Drive is an annual event organized by Lloyd Pierce, assistant coach for the Indiana Pacers, to collect new or gently used coats for individuals experiencing homelessness. The third annual drive took place on December 2, 2025, at Horizon House in Indianapolis.
Who participated in the event?
Lloyd Pierce, along with Pacers guards Bennedict Mathurin and Taelon Peter, hosted the event. They were joined by members of the community who donated coats to support the initiative.
What is Horizon House?
Horizon House is a facility in Indianapolis dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. They provide comprehensive services to help individuals secure and maintain housing, aiming to break the cycle of homelessness.
How can I contribute to Horizon House?
Donations of coats and other essential items can be dropped off at Horizon House during business hours. Additionally, donations can be made online through their Amazon Wish List.
How has the Indy Coat Drive evolved over the years?
The Indy Coat Drive has grown each year, with increased participation and support from both the Pacers organization and the Indianapolis community. The inaugural event in 2023 was organized on short notice, yet it received a positive response. The following year, with more preparation and promotion, the event saw even greater success. This year, organizers anticipated an even larger turnout, reflecting the community’s growing commitment to supporting those in need.
| Event | Date | Location | Organizers | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Third Annual Indy Coat Drive | December 2, 2025 | Horizon House, 1033 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN | Lloyd Pierce, Bennedict Mathurin, Taelon Peter, Pacers organization, Indianapolis community | Collect new or gently used coats for individuals experiencing homelessness |
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