Staff Writer
The Tribune-Star
TERRE HAUTE —
Vigo County public school children are still about five weeks away from hearing the first school bell of the year, but Covenant Cooperative Ministry and citizens and community merchants have jumped the gun to make sure those in need will have clothes they can be proud of on opening day. Volunteers from Covenant Cooperative Ministry are once again joining in to help with the annual “First Days Back to School” clothing drive.
“Studies show that learning and self esteem go hand-in-hand,” said Rose Aycock, Covenant executive director. “And arriving with new, relevant clothing on the first day certainly helps students feel good about themselves. Our goal this year is to clothe 250 children, and we lost several thousand dollars in inventory of new clothes/shoes/supplies with recent storm damage to our building, but in the past we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the community,” Aycock added. “The response continues to be bigger and bigger each year.”
The most in-demand items are new shoes, underwear and socks, which will go on a first-come, first-served basis. Jeans and graphic T-shirts are the most commonly requested clothing. Knee length shorts are also requested as first days often still present high temperatures. All sizes of clothing and shoes are needed to fit children in K-12. Backpacks and school supplies are also needed.
Although financial contributions are down, CCM staff and volunteers are ready to recruit sponsors for each of the children. “First Days” displays can be found throughout the city at five locations. Shoppers select a tag from the display boards at Kmart, Old Navy, Pacesetters, TJ Maxx and Wamart (Clinton) through Aug. 13.
The Ministry is accepting monetary and donations to be distributed to children from low-income families. About 300 students in grades K through 12 will be outfitted in new clothes and new shoes.
Clothing donations can be dropped off between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. through Aug. 15 at CCM headquarters at 122 S. 10 1/2 St. he project accepts only new clothing and shoes. Call (812) 478-7700 for more information.
