Fall is such a wonderful time of year here in the Piedmont Triad. The hot days of summer are giving way to that cool breeze, pumpkin spice everything is out in the stores, and we are dusting off those boots for the cooler weather! The beginning of fall means it is time to put away those shorts and summer dresses and break out the fall wardrobe.
This weekend we are taking my son to stock up on all his clothing needs for the upcoming cooler weather. It always amazes me how absolutely nothing from the year before comes even close to fitting him again this year so we have to get everything from jackets, to shoes, to winter coats!
Unfortunately, for so many in our community fall shopping is a huge hardship that often means going without other basic necessities or simply doing without the warm clothes needed. On top of that, 39 of Guilford County schools require SMOD (Standard Mode of Dress) approved clothing for their students. Without this, students can be disciplined for not wearing uniforms. At Backpack Beginnings we distribute 1200 pieces of clothing per month to children in need, and many of our donations are SMOD approved. Proper clothing for the season is so important to help foster a positive learning environment for these children.
How can you help? There are so many ways to give back! At our house, we are collecting my son’s gently used clothes that no longer fit him and donating them to BPB. Hosting a clothing drive at your office is another great way to collect. Does your neighborhood have a fall yard sale? Collect any clothing that doesn’t sell and drop them off. Church led drives is another way to get the community involved. For more information on how you can help or to learn more about our clothing pantry, follow this link.
Written on 9/8/17 by Erin Williams.
