2024 CS Drive Supplies for Success 5

Your donation could be...

A shoe that fits, a coat that's warm, or a backpack ready for learning.

A warm coat, shoes that fit, or hygiene items can make the difference between a student being present and engaged or feeling left out. That’s why every United Way Community School has a Community Closet stocked with essentials that help students walk into the classroom comfortable, confident, and ready to learn.

From August 22–29, United Way is hosting the Community Closet Restock campaign. Instead of a traditional supply drive, we’re focusing on replenishing Community Closets across all 17 United Way Community Schools, including Erie High. These closets address non-academic needs, the everyday barriers that can keep students from learning, so children and families can focus on education, not on what they’re missing.

Your donation will go directly toward purchasing the items each United Way Community Schools need most. From sneakers after a house fire, to a suit for prom, to the everyday essentials that help kids feel like they belong, your gift ensures students have the support they need. Together, we can reach our goal of $10,000. 

DONATE

 

your donation matters, no matter how big or small. 

  • When an aunt unexpectedly took custody of her two young nieces, she found herself unprepared for the sudden change. Overnight, she became their primary caregiver — without the school supplies, clothing, or essentials they needed to start the year. She reached out to Iroquois Elementary, a United Way Community School, and was connected with Community School Director Caitlin. Together, they identified what would help the girls transition smoothly. From the Community Closet, Caitlin provided backpacks filled with school supplies, along with hygiene products and clothing to help them start fresh. For this family, the Community Closet was more than just a resource — it removed the stress of meeting immediate needs so the girls could focus on learning.
  • At Woodrow Wilson Middle School, the Community Closet is open to students and families whenever they need it — whether it’s a quick change of clothes during the day or something more urgent. This past year, one student’s family lost everything in a sudden house fire. While they wanted to maintain their independence in seeking resources, they reached out to the school for help and was connected with Julia, Wilson's United Way Community School Director. Clothing and shoes were their biggest need and Julia was able to pull from the Community Closet to provide new clothing and a brand-new pair of sneakers. In the weeks that followed, he would often stop by with a big smile to show off his shoes. This simple resource removed a burden during a difficult time and helped the student feel confident again.
  • An Erie High student wanted to attend prom but didn’t have a suit or shoes, and prom was just a week away. Erie High Community School Directors searched recent donations in the Community Closet and found a suit in his size. A fabric teacher tailored it perfectly, JROTC members helped him pick out a tie and taught him how to tie it, and donated dress shoes completed the look. On prom night, he wore a perfectly fitted suit and enjoyed an unforgettable evening. When he returned to school, he proudly shared how much fun he had — and how grateful he was for the opportunity. Thanks to donors like you, the Community Closet can meet needs big and small — from something special like a prom suit to essentials like winter wear — so students can feel confident and fully participate in school life.