The Mary Lee Tucker Fund, Inc. Clothe-A-Child Program

Description

In 1924, the program was pioneered by a local society reporter in Lorain, Ohio, named Rhea Soper Eddy. She wanted to provide local children in the city of Lorain a chance to shop for new coats and boots to keep them warm during the harsh Ohio winter. Nearly 100 years later, our organization currently serves children in need living in Erie, Huron, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain Counties.

What is the Clothe-A-Child program?

Our organization shops for families who are facing financial hardships and are in need of additional assistance. Every year, the Clothe-A-Child program invites families with children between five and twelve years old who meet eligibility requirements to shop at a local department store for new clothes such as shirts, pants, undergarments, coats, shoes, hats, scarves, and gloves. The children have the opportunity to pick their own clothes at stores carrying their favorite brands and styles to add to their wardrobe.

We like to think of our volunteers as the glue to our shopping season. Our volunteers will shop with the children to guide and encourage them through the process of picking their new clothes. The Clothe-A-Child program strives to show every child compassion and respect while teaching children to become independent and improve life skills. Our goal is to turn a typical shopping trip into a memorable and fun experience.