ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Clothes to Kids is always busy during back-to-school time.
The nonprofit, that offers free stylish back-to-school wardrobes to kids in need, is hearing from more families than usual this year.
The pandemic added to the pressure.
"We've seen a drastic increase in our mission," says Clothes to Kids executive director Jennifer Jacobs. "More than half of all students in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties qualify to shop here."
Jacobs adds that whether students are heading back to the classroom or learning from home, school clothes are always a necessity.
This is how it works. Clothes to Kids, which is donations-based, caters to students who are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch at school.
Parents and students can use a detailed online formto pick out wardrobes selected by on-site personal shoppers.
Parents can then pick up the wardrobes at one of 3 store locations.
With the increase in demand this year, Clothes to Kids is reaching out to the community for helpful donations. Anything from gently used shirts, blouses, dresses, pants and shorts to new socks and underwear is needed.
For more information on how you can donate, click here.