Editor’s note: This story has been updated with additional resources.
Every parent knows the drill. When summer starts to fade away, it’s time to get ready for school. Parents want their kid to succeed and part of that is having the proper attire.
Just because school has started does not mean children have everything they need.
Here is a list of places where parents and guardians can find free or affordable clothing options.
Ladies of Charity, 1936 Vel R. Phillips Ave., provides clothing to children in need through a voucher program. Each child receives shirts, pants, a winter jacket, a uniform if required and more. The Children’s Clothing Center is open every Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and the second Saturday of each month. Schools or social workers may provide families with a voucher, otherwise they can contact Sally Lautmann at (414) 526-2574.
2. United Methodist Children’s Services
United Methodist Children’s Services, 3910 W. Lisbon Ave., has a free closet bank. It is open on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from noon until 4 p.m.
3. House of Peace Community Center
House of Peace Community Center, 1702 W. Walnut St., has a free clothing bank. Patrons can visit the clothing bank through appointment only. It is open in the afternoons. To schedule an appointment call (414) 933-1300.
Salvation Army works throughout the year to help low-income families. In addition to its winter coat drive, it also has thrift store locations throughout the county. Find the thrift store closest to you by clicking here.
Atonement Lutheran Church offers clothing to all those in need at its clothing bank, 4542 N. Sherman Blvd. The clothing center is open on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The church also hosts an annual rummage sale every July. 6
Christ Child Society, 4033 Good Hope Rd, a local Milwaukee organization run by volunteers, has a resale shop, which provides clothes, toys and books for children. The shop is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The shop also has adult clothing, furniture and household items. For more information, call 414-540-0489.
During the summer local organizations such as COA, Heal the Hood and House of Peace hold school supplies drive. If you missed one of the drives and need school supplies for your child, consider speaking with your school’s social worker about obtaining supplies.
Did we miss a place that offers school supplies and clothing for low-income families? Feel free to leave a note in the comments or send us an email at info@milwaukeenns.org.
About Ana Martinez-Ortiz
Ana serves as NNS’ newly created community engagement reporter and is responsible for writing stories that help our readers navigate their lives as well as making sure they know the fun things that are happening in their neighborhoods. You can email her here or call (414) 604-6397.
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