Nearly 3,200 children throughout Lorain County are expected to receive clothing this September as they return to school.
Each child will receive about $350 worth of clothing, thanks to funding from the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, in partnership with the Lorain County commissioners, the county’s Department of Job and Family Services and the Lorain County branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio.
Clothing bags have been packed according to the selections made by families. No new orders are being taken.
Distribution will take place at two club sites, the Desich Family Campus, 4111 Pearl Ave. in Lorain, and Elyria South Community Center, 1821 Middle Ave., on the following dates and times:
• Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sept. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sept. 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Families can choose from a uniform, play or combination package. Depending on the family’s selection, the child will receive a book bag, gym shoes, three-in-one coat, khakis or joggers, polos or T-shirts, hoodie sweatshirt, socks and hats.
“We are so fortunate in Lorain County to have the full support of our commissioners and Job and Family Services in expanding this clothing program so that we can serve the kids that need us most,” said Mike Conibear, BGCNEO’s Lorain County regional director. “With all of the uncertainty associated with employment and reopening schools this fall, we are pleased that we are able to do a little bit to relieve parents’ anxiety.”
This is the Boys & Girls Clubs’ fifth year giving away clothing; Conibear said this year it seems more crucial than ever.
This is the largest clothing distribution undertaken by the clubs during the five years the program has existed. Last year, they distributed 847 bags of clothing.
