In 2023, a $10,000 grant from Community Giving Foundation's Women's Giving Circle helped the Union County Giving Closet provide essential clothing to local families facing severe financial strain.
For parents navigating tough economic times, the simple act of preparing children for school or play can bring immense stress. To meet this need, the Union County Giving Closet stepped in to assist 64 households, providing personalized care packages for 150 children across six counties. Each child received seven complete outfits, a pair of sturdy shoes, pajames, socks, and underwear. By tailoring every package to the child's unique style and specific sizes, the program ensured that each recipient felt valued, and confident. These items offered immediate comfort to the kids while allowing caregivers to redirect limited income toward critical expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries.
"Thanks to the Women's Giving Circle funding, we were able to meet families at a critical moment. Through careful planning, we stretched these resources to blow past our initial goal of serving 100 children and instead brought vital support to 50 additional children," shared Alison Collins, President and Founder of Union County Giving Closet.
One program participant shared, "The Union County Giving Closet has been a huge blessing to my whole family. My oldest daughter has special needs and requires specific clothing due to being non-mobile, and each time they blow me away with how detailed they are. They listened to each of my children's wants and needs and made them feel so special."
Because of this grant made possible by Women's Giving Circle donors, families navigating financial strain gained dignity, stability, and the foundation needed to move toward long-term independence. By meeting these immediate needs, the program helped children step into their classrooms with confidence for the future.
The Women's Giving Circle of the Community Giving Foundation empowers, connects, and inspires women and girls by supporting initiatives and resources that improve their lives. By bringing community members together to pool resouces and fund meaningful programs across the region, this grant is just one example of how the Women's Giving Circle's collective impact is creating lasting change. Learn more about the Women's Giving Circle here.