Amy Smallwood, Frenship Counseling Coordinator and Crisis Intervention Counselor, said through this donation all Frenship campuses have access to funding that is specifically designated for purchasing brand new clothes and shoes for students.

 

"Once the donation came in and we got things situated, we met with all of the counselors and told them about this initiative," Smallwood said. "We know that most schools have a clothes closet, where students have access to some gently used things, but we told them that this would be a little different."

 

Smallwood explained that the donor specifically requested that these funds be used for brand new items for students and that the counseling team was thrilled to be able to treat their kiddos in this way.

 

"This is brand new stuff," Smallwood said. "Once a counselor discovers that need, they let me know and we get them situated to where they go shopping for that kid. You know, 'look good, feel good, do good.' We just know that having that new pair of shoes on, or wearing those new clothes, gives that child a boost of confidence. That small thing can make a big difference on what kind of day that child has, how they treat their friends, and how they learn in class."

 

Willow Bend Elementary counselor Jessica Nietsch said that through Threads and Treads she has already been able to help a few students this year.

 

"The students have been very excited to try on and wear new pairs of shoes," Nietsch said. "It is a joy to see their faces light up when they open up that box. This is something that some of the students don’t get the benefit of doing very often."

 

Nietsch said she loves the fact that when a student has clothes or shoes that are falling apart, or are too small, she is able to go out and get them something brand new.

 

"Threads and Treads helps to put a smile on a child's face and provide financial help to the parents," Nietsch said. "These new shoes or clothes are different than what our school clothing closet can provide. It is something that students and parents are so grateful for."

 

Smallwood said even though it is a small thing to be able to do, it is making a big difference.

 

"I am so thrilled that we have this option," Smallwood said. "I think the more it's talked about, the more it will be used."

 

For more information about Threads and Treads, and to donate, click HERE.