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success closet overview

Introduction
Every child should have access to the basic necessities of life so that they can focus on their education. More than 50% of Mower County students qualify for free or reduced lunch (source). This means that a majority of our student body struggles to overcome many of the things taken for granted by others such as access to clothes, winterwear, personal hygiene products, and many other simple necessities. By assisting students who may be struggling to focus on their education because of inadequate access to basic necessities, we will be changing lives and improving overall community outcomes.
Why does the success closet matter?
 The yearly cost of living for a typical family (2 adults, 1 child) in Mower County is $47,084; however, 46.2% of Mower County households make less than $50,000, with 22% making less than $25,000 (source). The reality is that many families struggle to make ends meet. When families struggle to make ends meet, children may go without adequate clothing and winterwear and oftentimes do not have access to the personal care and hygiene items that they need.
what is the success closet?
The Success Closet works closely with the administration, success coaches, social workers, and nurses at local schools to identify and meet the individual needs of their students. We help supply hygiene supplies, clothing, and outerwear to each school upon request.
how does the success closet work?
Success Closet distributions to students in need are conducted in a private and safe environment. Closets are maintained at area schools and are stocked by Success Closet volunteers throughout the year. Student use is confidential so that students will not feel they “stand out” because they have been to the Success Closet. We want the people who use the Success Closet to feel good. Do you ever feel good when you go shopping? That is how we want this experience to be.
who is eligbile to receive items from the success closet?
Success Closet distributions to students in need are conducted in a private and safe environment. Closets are maintained at area schools and are stocked by Success Closet volunteers throughout the year. Student use is confidential so that students will not feel they “stand out” because they have been to the Success Closet. We want the people who use the Success Closet to feel good. Do you ever feel good when you go shopping? That is how we want this experience to be.
how can i support the success closet?
​The Success Closet efforts are made possible by donations from community members and businesses. Please consider the following ways to support the program:
  • Financial: Financial contributions are tax deductible and 100% of each donation goes to direct program costs.
    • Checks: mail to United Way (memo: Success Closet) at PO Box 605 in Austin, MN 55912
    • Credit Card: click here to donate securely online with a credit card
  • Supplies: contact us with interest in donating supplies or hosting supply drives at ksr@uwmower.org. See the item donation list below for more information about program needs.
item donation list
Personal Care
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Deodorant (all genders)
  • African American hair care products ***
  • Lotion
  • Bar of soap
  • Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads, and liners)
  • Body wash
  • Chapstick
  • Hair brushes and combs
 
Clothing
  • Elastic waist stretchy pants (all genders, kid size) ***
  • Socks (all genders, all sizes)
  • Underwear (all genders, kid size)
  • Training bras
  • Sweatshirts (all genders, kid size)
 
Winterwear
  • Coats (all genders, kid size) (XS, S, M, L) ***
  • Snow pants (all genders, kid size) ***
  • Insulated mittens/gloves ***
  • Boots (all genders, kid size)
 
*** Highlights urgent needed items

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