JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — A new community program is stepping in to help local families prepare for the upcoming school year after Jefferson County’s clothing voucher program came to an end.
Cedar One Realty’s charity committee has launched “Keys to Kids,” an initiative designed to provide children with new back-to-school clothing through donations from businesses, organizations and community members.
Committee member Melissa Yant said the group recognized a growing need after learning the county’s clothing voucher program and other assistance services were no longer available.
The program is working to raise donations that will allow eligible children to shop for clothing before classes begin. Organizers already have a list of children who qualify for assistance and plan to begin contacting families during the first two weeks of August.
To stretch every donated dollar, the initiative is partnering with the new Once Upon a Child store opening in Jefferson County to provide clothing for preschool through middle school-aged children. Older students will be able to shop at other retailers, including Walmart.
Organizers hope this year’s effort becomes the foundation for a larger annual program, with plans to expand its reach throughout the Ohio Valley, including parts of West Virginia.
Community members and businesses interested in supporting the Keys to Kids program are encouraged to contact Cedar One Realty for donation information.
