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Pittsburg State University student Addison McColloch has organized a clothing drive for Pittsburg Community Middle School.
“…There are too many children right here in our community that are worried about having clean or warm clothes to wear,” McColloch said. “Children having access to proper clothing and hygiene products is a basic human right, not something that they should have to earn.”
McColloch, a senior in social work, had the opportunity to shadow Vanessa DeLuna, the school social worker at PCMS, and through that process, McColloch was introduced to the clothing closet at the middle school.
“…We spent a lot of time purchasing items for kids in need such as shoes, clothes, and hygiene products because the clothing closet that the school did not have everything that they needed,” McColloch said. “During my time with Ms. DeLuna, I became aware that over 50… (percent) of the students there qualified for free-reduced price lunches due to living in low income homes. I saw what a need this school has and I really wanted to help.”
The drive is part of a project that McColloch is taking part in as a social work student and she will accept donations until Friday, Apr. 16.
“…I knew immediately that I wanted to help the middle school because, although it has been over a year since I shadowed Ms. DeLuna at the middle school, I have never forgotten the need that these students have,” McColloch said. “I especially thought of these students often during these bitter cold months that we had this winter. I worried for those students that did not have warm clothes to wear.”
There are drop off boxes in the office area of The Edge at Rouse apartment complex. Community members can drop off new or gently used clothing items, and/or brand-new hygiene items that haven’t been opened.
“I chose PCSM because I saw first hand the specific need that they have and just how big that need is,” McColloch said. “I also have always kept this school near and dear to me because during my time job shadowing at this school, was the time that I realized that I wanted to go into school social work for my career path.”
McColloch will also accept monetary donations via Venmo (@addisonmcc). All of the proceeds will be used to buy items which McColloch will then give to PCMS at the end of the drive.
“For this project I am hoping to be able to fill the clothing closet at the PCMS with enough items that will allow every student that is in need to be able to benefit from it,” McColloch said.
The goal of this project is to donate at least 150 items for the closet.
“…I am so appreciative and thankful for all of the help and support that I have already received for this project. If you are considering donating or have any other questions regarding my project please contact me via email amccolloch@gus.pittstate.edu.”