ALNV has been providing ‘basic essentials’ clothing items for nearly 20 years because we recognize the importance of new clothing in helping children feel comfortable at school.

Poverty can produce a variety of negative consequences for students, including low self-esteem, poor academic performance, and increased risk of bullying. Providing new clothing and shoes to students enduring economic hardship improves their chances for success in school. Having appropriate clothing enables students to participate with their peers and positively impacts their physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development.

During the 2020-2021 school year, despite schools being closed, Assistance League of Northern Virginia continued to provide children with new clothing items. We also distributed toiletry kits and numerous other items such as face masks and essential paper products. In addition, we distributed child-sized handmade quilts and blankets, most of which were packaged with a book.

During the current school year, with students back in the classroom, ALNV launched a more comprehensive clothing effort to provide basics such as underwear, socks, T-shirts and pants on a regular schedule. We also fulfilled specific requests from the schools we serve for other items of clothing, and in the sizes requested. In addition, we expanded our delivery of toiletries and face masks. Our partner schools have continued to emphasize an increased need for toiletries and personal grooming items. Starting in the Fall, we will provide items for a new hygiene program that will be offered at one of our schools.