Schools help kids in clothing crisis
Students who don't have the clothing, coats or hygiene items they need are less likely to concentrate on their studies, so several schools in the county are stepping up to provide them with those basics.
Freeport High School in Buffalo Township this year opened the Jackets Nest, where students can choose all manner of clothing, coats, belts and socks.
Students who forget their gym clothes or accessories, not just students in crisis, can access the Jackets Nest simply by asking secretary Jennifer Koedel to open it.
At Butler High School, the Tornado Shelter has been in place for three years.
“When we first publicized it, the response from the faculty and students was overwhelming,” said Principal John Wyllie.
He said coats, hats, gloves, hoodies, gym clothes, shoes, jeans, and even suits for formal school events are available at the Shelter.
Knoch High School in the South Butler School District established the Knights Closet last year.
Life Skills instructor Marisa Leech said the middle school and high school faculty and staff bring in an item of clothing or outerwear or a hygiene product to participate in the district's “dress-down days,” when teachers and other staff members can wear jeans to school.
Moniteau Junior-senior High School art teacher Laura Smolen established Warriors With a Heart last year.
The former dark room in the school's art department has been transformed by Smolen into a cute boutique where students in need can shop for an outfit complete with socks and matching jewelry.
Karns City School District Superintendent Eric Ritzert said coats and clothing are disseminated in his district through the Communities That Care program, which connects the district with not only needy families but donors as well.
Those interested in donating clothes, coats, hygiene products, food or other items to students should contact their local high school.
Read more about these school-based programs in Monday's Butler Eagle.
