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"I've always felt compelled to help kids. They are our next generation, and it's so important to champion for their success. I was invited to check out The PTA Clothing Bank one Thursday through my home PTA and learned of obstacles students were facing that could keep them out of the classroom or hinder that success. Not just ill- fitting clothing or lack of clothing, but experiences and obstacles I could've never imagined in my bubble. Couch surfing and stolen clothing, abuse that lead to clothing being trashed or burned, lockout eviction, fleeing domestic violence, fires from inappropriate heating, and more. I couldn't walk away from that. I had to do something. At the PTA Clothing Bank, this is my way of serving to do something. Plus, I get to serve with a super inspiring group of ladies.
At the Clothing Bank, the most meaningful work I do is interacting with the students and their families. Seeing them face to face means we get to hear their stories and experience their emotions. The stress, the relief, the excitement -- all of it. If we can turn someone’s day around or at least offer some kind of alleviation, the time and work is all worth it. I’ve never been a hugger, but this role is changing that in me.
There is so much need, and at the Clothing Bank, we need more volunteers. We are always looking for volunteers on the Thursdays we are open. If anyone is interested, they can reach out to us on Facebook at the PTA Clothing Bank or via email -- clothingbank@scptamo.org. Our schedule is on the Facebook page and website. Donations of new or gently used clothing, shoes or accessories can be dropped at either Springfield location of The Wash House Coin Laundry during their regular hours or directly at The Clothing Bank any Thursday that we are open for shopping.
One big need we have right now is socks and underwear sizes 3T and up. We’ve served over 1,600 visits so far this year, and second semester, students can have more socks and underwear when they shop. Boxer briefs for boys can seem like such a small thing, but any donations make a huge difference for a child.”
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