Since April, students from the Mamaroneck High School’s Transition Academy have been volunteering at Pass it On Kid’s Kloset twice monthly helping to sort children’s clothing. A program of Westchester Jewish Community Services, Kid’s Kloset collects new and gently-used children’s clothing and essentials to redistribute free of charge to local families in need.
“Kid’s Kloset is an entirely volunteer-driven program,” says Director Stephanie Roth. “Without the support of these dedicated students and other devoted volunteers Kid’s Kloset could not exist.”
“The Transition Academy provides supported work experiences to special education students while they are attending high school to assist them in developing the skills necessary to be successfully employed in the future,” explains Kristen Macaluso, Transition Counselor. “Twice monthly the students travel by public bus to Kid’s Kloset where they are provided an opportunity to practice vocational and social skills all while making a contribution to their community.”
“It’s good to be a volunteer at Kids’ Kloset and to sort shoes, bookbags and clothes for kids who don’t have much,” says student Erika Chavez. “I like helping people out who need it. I have fun bonding with the other volunteers!”
The collaboration between the Transition Academy and Kid’s Kloset has been a win-win and the two groups plan to continue to partner next year to offer even more students this wonderful opportunity. For more information about Kid’s Kloset, contact 914-831-7616 or kidskloset@wjcs.com.
