Charitable Union's Annual Back-to-School Clothing Drive Underway in Calhoun County

Every child deserves to walk into the classroom feeling confident, prepared, and ready to learn. For 139 years, Charitable Union has been making that possible for families throughout Calhoun County through their annual Back-to-School Mobile Store Events.

"Education is one of the greatest pathways out of poverty," said Teresa Allen, CEO of Charitable Union. "When children have clothes that fit, they can focus on learning instead of worrying about what they're wearing. We are deeply grateful to every donor, volunteer, and community partner who makes that possible."

Mobile Store Events Coming in August:

This August, Charitable Union staff and volunteers will create mobile clothing stores, bringing free new and gently used school clothing directly to families in:

• Albion
• Harper Creek
• Homer
• Marshall
• Battle Creek

Most Needed Items:

Boys: Pants (sizes 4-18), Shirts (sizes M-XL), Underwear (M & L)
Girls: Pants (sizes 5-6, 8, 12-20), Shirts (L & XL), Underwear (sizes 16-18)
Men: Pants (waist sizes 25-29), Shirts (M-XXL), Underwear (S-XXL)
Women: Pants (sizes 3, 5, 9), Shirts (XL), Underwear (sizes 13-14)

Donation Deadline: July 31

Donations are being accepted through July 31 during regular business hours at numerous locations throughout Calhoun County, including Battle Creek businesses, credit unions, banks, and community organizations.

How Families Can Get Help:

Families in Battle Creek may begin scheduling appointments on July 21 by calling (269) 964-7234 Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by making an appointment while visiting the Free Store.

Eligible families must:

• Live in Calhoun County
• Have children entering Kindergarten through 12th grade
• Present a valid Bridge, Medicaid, or WIC card
• Bring a photo ID and benefit card to their appointment

About Charitable Union:

Charitable Union provides clothing, personal care items, baby formula, steel-toed shoes, and household items FREE OF CHARGE to Calhoun County residents who have a Bridge, Medicaid, or WIC card. The organization serves seniors, adults, the homeless, and children at their store located at 85 Calhoun Street in Battle Creek.

Free Store Hours: Monday through Wednesday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon.

Volunteers Needed:

"We couldn't do this without our volunteers," said Nicole Frohlich, Operations Manager. "Every hour donated helps ensure another child begins the school year feeling confident and ready to succeed."

Those interested in volunteering can contact Nicole Frohlich at Nicole@CharitableUnion.org or call (269) 964-7234.

Donation Drop-off Hours:

Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All donations can be placed in the pink bins located in the parking lot at 85 Calhoun Street.

For more information, visit www.charitableunion.org or call (269) 964-7234.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who qualifies for the Back-to-School clothing program?
A: Families living in Calhoun County with children entering Kindergarten through 12th grade who have a valid Bridge, Medicaid, or WIC card.

Q: When is the donation deadline?
A: Donations are being accepted through July 31 at various locations throughout Calhoun County.

Q: How can I volunteer to help?
A: Contact Nicole Frohlich at Nicole@CharitableUnion.org or call (269) 964-7234 to learn about volunteer opportunities.