News

IAM accepting back-to-school kids' clothes through July 19

By Lightning Reports, Published: June 19, 2024

Interfaith Assistance Ministry seeks the help of the community in its Back-To-School Clothes Drive, which runs through Friday, July 19.

With the goal of helping every elementary school age child start the 2024-25 school year off feeling good about themselves and wearing a new outfit like many other students, IAM needs donations of clothing for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

“We want to help children whose families cannot afford to purchase their child  a complete new school outfit to have the opportunity to start school feeling and looking their best,” said Elizabeth Willson Moss, executive director of IAM.  “It’s embarrasing for a child to wear uncomfortable or tattered clothing and shoes to school — especially on the first day.”

IAM staff and volunteers will distribute the clothing to children from July 22 through Aug. 9 at in the clothing assistance department. Distribution will occur on a first-arrived, first-served basis.

Anyone interested in helping may  pick a tag off of the Back-to-School Blessings Tree at IAM’s Thrift Store 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Donors may also purchase any of these items:

• Boys and girls shorts, jeans or cargo pants: sizes 4-14
• Boys and girls tops: sizes 4-14
• Sneakers: Children’s sizes 10-13, 1-5 and adults’ sizes 6-8.
• Underwear sizes: 4-14
• Children’s socks: ankle and no-show socks

Donations may be dropped off at IAM’s Crisis Services Facility;s pantry donation door under the portico at 310 Freeman St. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday.

If clothing donations are ordered online, please ship them to Interfaith Assistance Ministry, 310 Freeman St., Hendersonville, NC, 28792. In addition to the new clothing, IAM will also provide several gently used outfits to children heading back to school.

“Church groups, neighborhood groups, civic organizations and others are encouraged to participate in IAM’s annual back-to-school efforts,” Moss said. “We are so grateful to our generous community for helping IAM make this happen for our youngest students.”

With the cost of living at an all-time high, donations are greatly needed and appreciated, Moss said. Financial gifts designated for Back-to-School blessings are also greatly welcomed and appreciated, she added. Financial donations can be made on line at www.iam-hc.org or via mail: IAM, PO Box 2562, Hendersonville, NC, 28793.