Back-To-School Clothing Drive: Senior project aims to support local children and families

Lizzy Mehlbrech, a senior at Tea Area High School, is spearheading a heartfelt initiative to support children and families in need as they prepare for the upcoming school year. Her senior project, a Back-To-School clothing drive, aims to provide new and gently used clothing to those in need, fostering a sense of confidence and excitement for the new academic year.

“Growing up, me and my sisters got the opportunity to go back-to-school shopping before every school year. I have vivid memories of feeling so confident going into the school year, loving my outfits,” Mehlbrech shared. “I want to extend this feeling to those in need, who either have grown out of their clothing or need the confidence boost to start the year off strong!” 

The clothing drive will take place over the weekend of August 9-11, with various drop-off locations set up around the community, including St. Nicholas Catholic Church and Trinity Lutheran Church. 

In addition to clothing, Mehlbrech plans to send children home with laundry baskets filled with essential household items to further support their families. 

Mehlbrech will be accepting donations at these locations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

The inspiration for this project came from a student leadership academy Mehlbrech attended in May. 

“We were challenged to plan our own service projects, and it sparked my interest. I wanted to bring it back to my community to serve those in need,” she explains.

Mehlbrech’s initiative is not just about clothing; it’s about providing a sense of dignity and readiness for the school year. By addressing both the immediate need for school-appropriate attire and the broader needs of the household, Mehlbrech hopes to make a lasting impact on the community.

For those interested in contributing to the drive, Mehlbrech is accepting donations of gently used or new clothing, ages ranging from 1-16, male and female. She is also accepting monetary donations for other household necessities, cash, venmo or checks. Mehlbrech can be contacted by email at lizzy.helbrech@gmail.com or by phone (605) 670-0991.