Zwaanendael Women’s Club seeks clothing for Cape students in need

The GFWC Zwaanendael Women’s Club is asking for the public’s help to support a Clothes Closet for Cape Henlopen High School students in need by donating hoodies, athletic socks, packaged boxer shorts, leggings and boys’ jeans that are school-appropriate and free of emblems or graphics. Only new clothing items can be accepted, with the exception of gently used coats. Items should all be adult sizes from small to 2XL.

A box has been provided in the CHHS main office where items can be dropped off during regular high school hours through the end of October.

Forty percent of the CHHS student body qualifies for the free and reduced lunch program, and those are the students the club is trying to help with basic school clothing. The club began the Clothes Closet five years ago to help students in need to better fit in with their peers. Twice a year, all the clothes are on display so the students can select what they need. They also have access to the Clothes Closet as needed.

Otis Blackburn, who works with students on their food, housing, clothing, and employment needs, said last year he was overwhelmed by the support for the youth in the Cape Region shown by this clothing drive and the many other ways the community supports the students. 

The GFWC Zwaanendael Women’s Club, a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, is a 501c3 nonprofit corporations whose members are public-spirited women serving and improving the community. For more information, go to www.gfwczwaanendael.org.