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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. Erika Chavez is one of several special-education students at Mamaroneck High School who volunteers at Pass it On Kids Kloset in White Plains.
Chavez is part of the high schools Transition Academy, which helps special-education students develop vocational skills by offering them supported work experiences while they are in school.
Twice monthly, the students travel by public bus to Kids Kloset where they are provided an opportunity to practice vocational and social skills, all while making a contribution to their community," Kristen Macaluso, transition counselor, said in a statement.
Kids Kloset is an all-volunteer program run through Westchester Jewish Community Services. It collects new and gently-used childrens clothes and essentials to distribute to Westchester families in need. Volunteers use service agencies, including houses of worship, schools, shelters and community groups, to deliver donated items.
Based on the success of the collaboration this year, the two groups plan to partner again next year.
Its good to be a volunteer at Kids Kloset and to sort shoes, bookbags and clothes for kids who dont have much, Chavez said. I like helping people out who need it. I have fun bonding with the other volunteers.
Interested in helping out? Kids Kloset is always looking for volunteers, as well as hangers, shelves, storage bins, shoes and new or gently-used clothing. Items needed the most include unopened diaper packages, wipes, new bottles and sippy cups, and new underwear for children of all ages. For more information, call 914-761-0600, ext. 715, or email kidskloset@wjcs.com.
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