The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
CARING IN ACTION
Boys & Girls Clubs assemble clothing bags for distribution to 3,200 youngsters
Boys & Girls Clubs of Lorain County staffers are assembling 3,200 bags of clothing for distribution to Lorain County youth.
The initiative is a partnership among the organization, Lorain County commissioners and Lorain County Department of Job & Family Services.
Kendall Krueger, programs manager for the Clubs and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, said the bags will be distributed the first week of October.
Due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, the number of youngsters served by the program has increased tremendously, Krueger said.
“This is our sixth year facilitating this program,” she said. “In previous years, we had 700 to 1,000 kids.”
“This is our sixth year facilitating this program. In previous years, we had 700 to 1,000 kids.” — Kendall Krueger
“But last year was the biggest year we ever had, and reached over 3,300 kids. This year, we have beat that number as well and will service over 3,400 kids.”
The program utilizes the TANF funds and is geared toward eligible families with children between the ages of 6 and 15.
Krueger said the $2 million grant will allow for each child to receive about $500 worth of clothing including pants, shirts, shoes, intimate items and outerwear.
“Our community was hit hard due to the pandemic,” she said. “It’s been hard for people to find consistent work that can support the cost of living in Ohio.”
Lorain County Department of Job & Family Services determines the families receiving the assistance, Krueger said.
Krueger, a native of Arkansas, moved to Lorain following the COVID-19 pandemic, and later began her current role.
“It’s really humbling to be in this position,” she said. “To be the person leading this team to provide for so many families and being that focal point for the county.
“Knowing that I’m giving back to my community is all the reward I need.”
She said she is grateful for each volunteer who has participated in this initiative.
“Our workers and staff packing these bags understand that our mission is preparing children for a successful future, and this is a starting point,” Krueger said. “It isn’t easy operational wise, but it’s one of the best ways to show our dedication to the community.”
Volunteers and staff are assembling the bags between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays, until Oct. 1.
Krueger said she strongly encourages anyone interested to volunteer or observe the process to visit the Lorain Boys & Girls Clubs, 4111 Pearl Ave. in Lorain.