Helping to clothe kids for school
With the first bell of the 2009/10 school year just a few weeks away, many island moms and dads are wondering how they will be able to afford to send their youngsters to class in new clothing. The economy has taken a heavy toll on many families on the island and again, Fellow Islanders Sending Help is seeking the assistance of Pine Island residents to help with its “Clothes for Kids” drive which is now in full swing.
“Last year, we provided new clothes for 88 children and this year we are predicting that we will have at least the same amount of requests for assistance,” said Peg Harmon with FISH. “With the help of many individuals and several service organizations, we have been able to help these families who are experiencing financial difficulties, and it is our hope that islanders will once again come through for the kids.”
The members of FISH are asking for groups and individuals to “adopt” and shop for two outfits for a Pine Island Elementary school student in need. Those adopting a child will receive information about the child’s age, size and gender as well as suggestions with regard to what items to purchase. Those who do not have the time to shop for an adopted child can make a financial contribution and a FISH volunteer will do the shopping for the adopted child. Each child will receive a pair of pants or a skirt, a pair of shorts, two shirts, under garments and socks. To complete the outfits, FISH will provide each child with a $20 gift certificate from Payless Shoe Stores to purchase a new pair of shoes.
“Fortunately 80 percent of our kids were adopted by island residents and groups; however, all of the children received clothing and shoes utilizing some of the FISH funds,” said Harmon. “It would be wonderful if this year 100 percent of our kids were adopted by our caring residents.”
In the past, FISH has enlisted the help of several shoppers for the Clothes for Kids drive.
“Each year, the Matlacha Hookers adopt at least 15 kids and in the past Darlene Phanco has shopped for the group and did an outstanding job,” said Harmon. “The Baptist Church in St. James City also adopts several kids and there are many individuals who adopt entire families. We are very grateful to all of these generous groups and individuals for all the good things they do.”
According to Harmon, the average cost per child is $40 and she has even allowed individuals to share the adoption cost of a single child.
Those families that are in need of assistance from the FISH “Clothes for Kids” drive or anyone knowing of a family in need are asked to call Peg Harmon at 283-3874 or Mary Jo Roane at 283-7863. The cut-off date for requests to “Clothes for Kids” is Aug. 12 to allow time for shopping and distribution of the clothing prior to the fist day of school, which is Aug. 24. Those participating in shopping are asked to drop off the donations at Fire Station #1 at the island center.
Those interested in making a donation can mail a check to FISH, P.O. Box 357, Matlacha, FL 33993, or to adopt a child call Harmon or Roane.