SAFFORD — There are two chances for parents who need a little help getting clothing for their growing children.
GCRC and St. Vincent DePaul will offer vouchers for a complete outfit for each child at the 12th annual Graham County Back to School Resource Fair, Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the National Guard Armory on U.S. Highway 191 in Safford.
The second chance comes courtesy of Mary Richardson and Barbara Sabin, who organize a community clothing exchange at the Safford Stake Center.
“This will be about my seventh year,” Richardson said. “We didn’t do it last year, obviously, because of COVID.”
This year’s clothing exchange will take place Saturday, Aug. 6, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Unlike other clothing exchanges, this is open to the entire family, from newborns to centenarians. And there are no proof of need requirements — all Richardson and Sabin ask is for people to show some restraint so as many may be helped as possible.
“It’s basically: take what you need (and) don’t over take; you can always come back later,” Richardson said.
Any clothing left over will be donated to GCRC and Angel’s Closet.
Donations of clothing will be accepted starting July 29 at Richardson’s home on the 2200 block of LaMonica Way, or Sabin’s home on the 1200 block of South 11th Avenue. Both are in Safford. Donated items should cleaned and in good condition (no stains or holes), and donation bags should be labeled by approximate age, size and gender. Accessories, such as belts, purses and shoes, will also be accepted.
Volunteers to host additional drop-off locations are also being sought. To volunteer to accept donations, text Richardson at 928-322-6539 or Sabin at 928-322-4475.
