By Lucy Peterson
As we enter into the thick of winter, it is important for everyone to have a way to stay warm.
A thrift store that provides free, used clothing for students has opened for business recently at Branford High School. So if a student needs a winter coat or other clothing, there is now a free resource in the school.
Teacher Kelly Yates, and social workers Melissa Simone, Diane Queen, and Jen Miller have worked hard to set up the new store to make it available for everyone at BHS. They help collect donations and organize the times when students can “shop” at the store.
They have created a fashion sanctuary in room A15 where students can go to upgrade their wardrobe. There are currently several racks of clothes, displays of shoes, and collections of other items in the room.
Simone called it a “reduce, reuse, recycle initiative”, which shows how this store is an eco-friendly, sustainable way to help support students at BHS. The store has been receiving donations for staff and students for the last several weeks.
Whether you need a winter coat, or a new dress for a night out, there is something at the thrift store for everyone. “The best part is that everything is free”, said Mrs. Yates, who started this operation last month.
“My kid’s daycare does a similar thing which is how I got the idea,” Yates said. “It’s a place where people can give and get clothes for free.”
For many families money may be tight, especially around the holidays, so not having to worry about buying clothes to stay warm could be life changing for many people, she said.
The store is open Mondays during period two, Tuesdays during period six, and Thursdays during period six and seven. The store is located in room A15.
In order for students to shop, they need a pass from their teacher, and to sign in as soon as they arrive. The general guidelines is that students are limited to 10 items a month unless there are extenuating circumstances. Teachers can also bring students down to “shop.”
If students want to donate gently used clothing, they should see Yates, Simone, Queen or Miller. Or email Yates at kyates@branfordschools.org
