From prepping for an interview to getting ready to suit up for a cooking class or nursing skills, clothing closets are making a splash across E2CCB CTE locations.
These “closets” come in a variety of forms – some being free-standing racks in school hallways, to others having physical classroom locations.
The donated clothing is free to students, and extends from business professional styles for E2CCB’s young men and women to culinary uniforms, medical scrubs, work pants, and warm jackets for students working in the outdoor fields.
“These donated outfits are an example of good faith,” said Aaron Delcamp when he first oversaw the clothing closet at the LoGuidice Educational Center E Building.
“In addition to serving our location, we will even package up the clothing and send it to needed locations across the E2CCB network when it is requested,” Delcamp added. The closet currently takes requests via email.
The goal of the clothing closet at LoGuidice, which was made possible by a grant secured by the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, is to outfit students for the professional world and potential career interviews.
The clothing closets at the Carrier Educational Center offer a wide range of options to ensure that students across various programs are well-equipped for their classes and internships. Conveniently located just outside the CDOS classroom, these racks provide a diverse selection of clothing to meet different needs.
“Students graduating from the Small Animal Science program play an important role in this initiative by donating their gently used medical scrubs,” commented Carrier Educational Center Principal, Jessica Sullivan. “This practice not only fosters sustainability but also ensures that every student has access to the clothing necessary for their educational and professional journeys. Together, we are creating an equitable environment that supports all students in their aspirations.”
One of our long-standing clothing closets is housed at Ormsby, which was inspired by the closing of the closet at Barker Road.
Students at Ormsby can “shop” from racks and shelves (constructed and installed by E2CCB students!) Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, before leaving the building for the day. This opportunity is advertised on the digital screens in the lobby, so students are aware of what’s available.
When perusing the Ormsby closet, you can find professional attire and also rugged and cold-weather gear for those studying construction and conservation.
The Ormsby closet doesn’t just stop at clothing – they also offer hygiene products, all for free.
“We collect cans and use the 5-cent return to purchase additional products for our kids,” said Allison O’Dell, who co-supervises the commerce center at Ormsby with Kelly McNell, which has been operating for over a decade.
O’Dell, McNell, and Ormsby don’t just serve their own community, but also the local population.
“Any clothing that is too big or not desired by our students is donated to the local shelters in the area,” O’Dell shared. “We also watch the news and donate to those families affected by tragedy, such as fires.”
Students who participate in the clothing closet program at the different CTE centers can earn hours of credit in the CDOS program.
“It is really a great opportunity for our students,” reflected Sullivan. “We are lucky to be teaching life skills while giving back to our student population.”
