Clothes for Kids provides clothes and shoes for children in need

By Dalton Black, Executive Director

Brianna Kraus, counselor at Bentley Primary School, has seen a increase throughout the years of students who are in need of clothes and shoes. She has tried to help as many as she can, often by purchasing items herself. This year, she decided to formalize the program, now called Clothes for Kids.

“Working with the families at Bentley Primary School, I see a real need for items for our students such as clothing and shoes,” said Brianna. “With gas and groceries skyrocketing, parents are struggling to come up with the extra money it takes to buy shoes and clothing. Times are hard right now and I’m excited to help in this way.”

Over the summer, Brianna brought a proposal to Harvey County United Way requesting funds to help buy new items for the program. The United Way staff and board of directors were compelled by her stories and her passion. We’ve heard of similar issues within our other communities so United Way was excited to find a way to help fund this program because we feel it impacts all three of our focus areas: health, education, and income stability.

After some conversation, it was decided to award Clothes for Kids with a grant of $500 to supply their room with shirts, pants, underwear, socks, and shoes of various sizes. Grant funding from Harvey County United Way was then used to receive additional grant funding from United Methodist Women, Sacred Heart Parish Center, and Crossroads Community Church, all of Halstead.

Clothes for Kids is a district-wide initiative. While students are identified at the elementary level, older siblings of those students will also benefit from the program as the whole family will be eligible to get clothes. Brianna has already identified 23 families that could use the program, and anticipates more now that the school year has begun.

“I think it’s important to serve the family as a whole, not just the students who attend my K-3 building,” said Brianna.

We are excited to play a small part in helping the children and families of USD 440 through this grant. We look forward to seeing the program grow and change the lives of youth in the community. Individuals and other organizations looking to contribute can contact Brianna Kraus at 316-772-3015.