TOLEDO, Ohio — With the start of a new school year, many stores selling clothes are offering back-to-school deals. But for some families that may not be enough.
In east Toledo, Helping Hands of St. Louis hosts a free clothing store weekly Tuesday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., giving local families in need another helpful option to save and get clothes for the family with grace and dignity.
Helping Hands Director, Sue Shrewsbery, said that's what makes this store great, allowing families in need to help themselves. She said on average, about 600 shoppers a month come to the store and the need is there, in some cases, more than thrift stores.
"You don't have the funds to go buy clothing. Not to mention you don't have the funds to go travel to get there," Shrewsbery said. "This is just a way for them to get a couple of outfits to wear for the month, for the kids to go to school and have some clean clothes, and it's done in a dignified manner."
Linda Carter said has been shopping at Helping Hands of St. Louis off and on for 10 years. She's even given herself the unofficial role of Helping Hands' free store spokeswoman.
"I do find a lot of things I probably don't need. But I get it and give it to certain people that need it," Carter said.
Shoppers like Carter can come every 30 days to find clothes for the family. Shrewsbery said with school back in session, there's more demand for clothes, especially for men and elementary and middle school children. Therefore, Helping Hands needs more volunteers and more clothes.
Longtime volunteer, Janet Wlodarz, said giving her time just makes sense.
"This fills my heart every time I work here," Wlodarz said. "It makes me feel good to help people. I've always been a helper with family. I started here in 2011."
Carter said anyone in need who wants a new look or clothes for the family should not be ashamed to shop at the free store.
"I get t-shirts for them," Carter said. "I got my favorite grandson, I get things for him."
Whether it's clothing, toys, or household items, Helping Hands of St. Louis accepts donations and gives them out when available. If anyone is interested in volunteering or has items to donate, drop-off is best during store hours on Tuesday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Helping Hands is located at 443 Sixth Street in east Toledo. For more information, click here.