Volunteer group seeks donations of winter clothing for students and families.

Greater Lafayette’s “It’s My Closet” Seeks Warm Donations as Winter Approaches

As the temperatures in Greater Lafayette begin to dip, residents are reminded that winter is just around the corner. For many families, this seasonal change means digging through closets to find suitable clothing. However, for some families, the challenge lies in finding enough warm clothes to get by. That’s where the Lafayette School Corporation’s “It’s My Closet” initiative comes into play, and they are calling on the community for help.

Located behind the now-closed Durgan Elementary School at 1840 S. 18th St., “It’s My Closet” is entering its 19th year of operation. This volunteer-run free store has been a lifeline for local families by providing essential clothing items to those in need. With around 140 families relying on the service, co-organizers Donna Osborn and Melinda Gilbert are noticing an urgent need for winter wear. “We are in serious need of winter clothing for our students,” Osborn stated. “As families start preparing for the colder months, we hope they will consider donating gently used items that they no longer need.”

The initiative stands out for its unique model: registered LSC students can “shop” the store once a month, selecting clothing and essentials during a 30-minute visit. During these visits, they are encouraged to choose whatever items they feel they need. Apart from clothing, each student receives a set of toiletries and hygiene products to last through the month, making the program not just a source of clothing but a comprehensive support system.

Yet, despite its success over nearly two decades, there is still a remarkable disparity: boys’ clothing. Osborn emphasizes this point, “We can always use more teenage boys’ items. We tend to accumulate a lot of girls’ clothing, but the need for boys’ clothes is ever-present.” With teenage boys being particularly selective about styles, the stores often run low on items that appeal to them specifically.

In addition to clothing, Osborn has also shared some exciting initiatives within the program. Each month, children receive a new shirt and pants, along with special giveaways during certain times of the year. For instance, in October, students receive two pairs of new socks; in November, they’ll get two pairs of new underwear. These thoughtful gestures are designed to help children feel a sense of normalcy and dignity, critical aspects for young people facing economic hardship.

The success of “It’s My Closet” is heavily dependent on the generous donations of the Greater Lafayette community. “We are truly blessed by the kindness and support this community provides. It’s heartwarming to see how many people care and step up for the kids,” Osborn remarked. She added, “Our goal is to help provide these children with as normal a life as possible, which we strive to achieve through the blessings we receive from our donors.”

As we gear up for the winter season, the need for warm clothing and essentials will only increase. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals and families to assess their winter wardrobes and consider supporting this worthy cause. Gently used clothing, especially for children ages 5 to 18, is urgently needed. Donations can make a world of difference for those who don’t have the luxury of an abundant closet to choose from.

If you are interested in contributing, “It’s My Closet” provides specific donation times and further information on their website. Please note that the store will be closed from October 21 through November 1 to accommodate LSC’s fall break, so plan ahead to drop off your donations.

In a world where everyone can play a part in lifting up those who are struggling, initiatives like “It’s My Closet” remind us of the power of community support. If you have items that can help make this winter a little warmer for kids in need, consider stopping by to contribute. By coming together, we can help ensure that no child in Greater Lafayette has to face the cold without the necessary clothing and warmth.

For further details, visit jeffersonhighschool.org/students/it_s_my_closet to see how you can help. Let’s work together to keep our community thriving and warm this season!