Our biggest requests this month for items at the First Teen Clothes Closet may seem at odds with each other: winter coats and athletic shorts.

Here’s why both are needed:

1. Winter. It is coming and our inventory of winter coats, especially for guys, is slim. We gave away 10 coats in September, more in October and the need is only going to increase as temps truly drop. Hats and gloves, especially ones for the guys, are needed as well.
2. Physical education classes. Many teens have mandatory PE classes, meaning they need athletic shorts year-round. We are “short” on supply and could use these in all sizes, especially larger women’s sizes.

As always, your heavy-duty shopping bags are welcome, as well, along with other donations of gently-used teen-appropriate clothing.

Thank you to the church and other community partners for continuing to help us serve young people from right here in Onalaska or who travel from as far away as Melrose, Viroqua and Sparta. We hosted 25 teens in September from seven communities who appreciate your caring.

First Teen Clothes Closet team