Community kids clothing closet July 30-Aug. 1

The fifth annual Love INC (Love In The Name Of Christ) Hill City-Keystone Community Kids Clothing Closet returns this weekend to kick off the back-to-school shopping season for free.

The event is organized by Love INC in partnership with The Little White Church and other local churches and volunteers to ease the back-to-school expense for families, keeping usable clothing within the community. 

“It’s a huge community, hand-me-down event,” said Love INC organizer Natalie Cutler.

Families are welcome to visit the pop-up shop from 2-6 p.m. Friday, July 31, or Saturday, Aug. 1, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Hill City Center to shop for free for gently used clothing items from infant sizes through high school and even some adult sizes as well. 

“We try to focus mostly on back to school kids clothes. That goes all the way up through high school,” said Cutler. “We do end up with adult clothes, and whatever is donated, we put it out.”

Community members are encouraged, but not required, to donate their outgrown or no longer used, kids clothing of any size between May 1 and July 30 every year. A donation bin is located outside of the office entrance at the Little White Church and can be accessed at any time. 

“We collect clothes for several months in the summer from any community members who want to be a part of this,” said Cutler. “That’s not required for coming to the pop-up shop. You don’t have to have donated anything.” 

Cutler hopes the event feels like you are looking through your “big sister or brother’s closet.”

“I think it’s a great event for our community, just to take care of each other,” said Cutler. 

Everyone is encouraged to attend. 

“Even if you find a few things, that can be helpful on a back-to-school budget,” said Cutler. “Be ready for a fun and welcoming environment. We’d love to have you.”