Parent Mentors Create Caring Closets to Build Bridges of Support in Schools

Ohio’s Parent Mentors already wear many hats and often their work extends far beyond the calls, e-mails, meetings, and paperwork. During a Community of Practice, the Parent Mentors of regions 7, 9 & 12 shared examples of Caring Closets they have helped create or maintain to support students in their districts. Caring Closets can make a significant difference in the lives of students by providing access to essentials like clothing, personal hygiene products, school supplies, and food, especially in Ohio as the temperature decreases and needs increase.

As we start the new year, many families want to declutter and are looking for a place to donate clothes, shoes, and other items, which could make it the perfect time for develop a Caring Closet.

Following are suggestions the Parent Mentors of regions 7, 9 & 12 contributed for how your school can set up and maintain a successful Caring Closet, even if space is limited:

Step 1: Assess Needs and Contributions

Start by creating a simple checklist for families to identify their needs and contributions. Include categories like:

• Clothes (by size and season)
• Personal hygiene items (including products suitable for all skin and hair types)
• School supplies
• Non-perishable food items

Send the checklist home with students or share it digitally. Encourage families to indicate what their household may need and what they are able to donate. This dual-purpose checklist fosters both engagement and support within the school community.

Step 2: Collect Donations

Promote donation drives through school newsletters, social media, and parent-teacher meetings. Highlight the importance of inclusivity by specifying the need for textured hair products, skincare items for diverse skin tones, and culturally relevant food options.

Step 3: Organize the Space

If your school doesn’t have a dedicated room for the Caring Closet, you can still create a functional and accessible setup:

• Use large plastic totes to organize items by category. Label each tote clearly (e.g., “Girls’ Winter Clothes – Sizes 8-10” or “Hair Care for Textured Hair”).
• Stack totes neatly along the edge of a room, under tables, or on shelving units to save space.
• Consider a portable cart for hygiene products or snacks to easily transport items where needed.

Step 4: Make Access Discreet and Dignified

Students and families may feel hesitant to ask for help. Establish a system that maintains privacy, such as:

• A request form students or parents can submit confidentially.
• Scheduled times for families to visit the closet when foot traffic is minimal.

Step 5: Maintain and Replenish

Work with school staff to regularly update inventory and communicate with families about ongoing needs. Have them designate a volunteer team of staff or parent leaders to check stock, sort items, and manage donations.

By creating a Caring Closet, your school can provide essential support to students, helping them focus on learning without the stress of unmet basic needs. Thank you to Parent Mentors who have played any role in these vital resources, and a special thanks to the Parent Mentors of Regions 7, 9 & 12 for taking the steps that we are sure has a big impact in building a supportive school community.