Fostering Confidence and Belonging with Teen & Kid Closet
At the heart of our mission lies the unwavering belief that every child deserves the opportunity to develop the self-confidence required for a successful future. Through the generous support of our donors, we actively fund youth empowerment programs that create safe spaces for marginalized kids, foster communities, provide opportunities for learning, build self-esteem, and, most importantly, offer avenues for joy. With immense pride and purpose, we announce Teen & Kid Closet as a recipient of our 2024 grant, focusing specifically on their transformative Clothe Our Children program. We have allocated $5,000 to bolster this impactful initiative. Teen & Kid Closet stands as a beacon of hope for children and youth in eastern Washington and North Idaho, providing more than just clothing — they offer dignity, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging to those in foster care, poverty, or homelessness.
Teen & Kid Closet’s Vision
At the core of Teen & Kid Closet’s vision is the commitment to providing quality clothing with dignity at the forefront. Envisioning a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, can access fashionable, good-quality clothing and accessories, the organization tirelessly serves children and youth, from newborns to those aged 22, who find themselves in foster care, poverty, or homelessness.
The Numbers Behind the Mission
The staggering statistics underscore the critical need that Teen & Kid Closet addresses. With an estimated 10,000 potential clients in their service area annually, the organization has already substantially impacted the community by serving 4,328 clients in 2023, including a record high of 560 children served in December alone. This highlights the urgency of their mission and their positive influence on the lives of children and youth in their community.
The Essence of Teen & Kid Closet
Teen & Kid Closet is more than just a physical store in Spokane; it’s a sanctuary for children in need, particularly those in foster care or poverty. Founded in 2007 by Robyn Nance and Linda Rogers, the organization boasts a hands-on board of directors and a dedicated team of volunteers who embody the spirit of community and belief in the potential of every child.
Accessing Teen & Kid Closet’s Services
Children must be referred by someone of authority, such as a social worker or school counselor, to access Teen & Kid Closet’s services. Referrals can be made through their user-friendly website, teenkidcloset.org. After submitting a referral, the Teen & Kid Closet scheduler contacts the family within 1 to 2 business days to arrange a shopping time at one of their locations.
Shopping Days at Teen & Kid Closet
Teen & Kid Closet has expanded its shopping opportunities to meet the overwhelming need. Previously, they opened their doors on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month from 8 am to 2 pm and the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 4 pm to 7 pm at their Downtown location. However, recognizing the growing demand, they’ve recently doubled these shopping days and times. Additionally, a new location in North Spokane is operational, though hours are yet to be determined. Referred children can shop every six months, ensuring a continuous clothing supply for those in need.
Donations and Community Involvement
Community support is the lifeblood of Teen & Kid Closet’s operations. Every first Saturday of the month, their Downtown location becomes a hub of generosity as donations of new, gently used, age-appropriate, and current items are welcome. Additionally, people can drop off donations at any First Interstate Bank branch during business hours. These contributions are crucial and are accepted on the 1st Saturday of the month at their Downtown location. Monetary donations are also essential, helping them purchase other necessary items to support youth in need. Your generosity, whether through donated items or financial support, is crucial in sustaining their mission and positively impacting the lives of the children we serve.
Looking Forward with Teen & Kid Closet
As Teen & Kid Closet expands its reach with a new location in North Spokane, the organization anticipates serving even more children in need. The addition of the North Spokane location broadens their impact. It signifies a concerted effort to establish a more accessible and inclusive space for children in the region, ensuring that their essential services reach those who need them most.
Believe in Me: Championing Basic Human Needs with Teen & Kid Closet
We are proud and deeply honored to support Teen & Kid Closet and their Clothe Our Children program. Together, we are guaranteeing access to basic human needs for every child and fostering a nurturing sense of belonging. Let us persist in our shared belief in the untapped potential of every child, striving for a future where each one can develop the self-confidence they need to succeed.
Discover the remarkable nonprofits we support on our website: www.believeinme.org. Your time is a valuable asset, and we welcome your involvement, whether through volunteering, sharing this story to amplify their mission, or making thoughtful donations that play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding the positive impact on the lives of children in need. Join us in making a lasting difference!
