The Sharing Shelf Expands Clothing Support for Children and Teens Amid Rising Demand
The Sharing Shelf, a nonprofit clothing bank dedicated to aiding children and teens in need within Westchester County, has reported a significant uptick in its services, providing clothing support to a total of 6,764 young individuals in 2024. This figure comprises 5,805 children served through the clothing bank and an additional 959 teens who benefitted from the organization’s Teen Boutique. This substantial outreach reflects a 23% increase in demand compared to the previous year.
The growing need for clothing assistance is particularly striking at the beginning of 2025. Within the first three weeks of the year, requests for clothing surged by an alarming 145% compared to the same timeframe in 2024, rising from 178 requests to 437. This escalation in demand underscores the challenges faced by low-income families in securing appropriate clothing for their children, even in one of the wealthiest counties in the United States.
Despite Westchester’s affluence, the reality for many families remains dire. According to the Westchester Children’s Association, the poverty rate for children under the age of five was recorded at 11.1% in 2023. This statistic translates to over 67,000 children and teens living in either poverty or low-income households throughout the county, highlighting a troubling disparity between economic wealth and socio-economic challenges.
Deborah Blatt, the founder and executive director of The Sharing Shelf, articulated the complexities surrounding clothing insecurity, noting, “Clothing insecurity is often overlooked, on the assumption that as long as one has some kind of clothes, there’s no problem. However, for students to excel academically and remain engaged in school, they must have clothing that fits properly, is seasonally appropriate, and reflects their individuality. Moreover, they need enough clothing to maintain cleanliness, an essential aspect of their daily lives.”
Founded in 2009 and operating from a warehouse in Port Chester, The Sharing Shelf acts as a critical resource for underserved families. The organization collects new and gently used clothing, which is diligently screened for quality by volunteers, before being distributed at no cost to low-income children and teens through various social service agencies, schools, and nonprofits.
The increase in demand for The Sharing Shelf’s services not only reveals the pressing need for more clothing resources but also emphasizes the importance of community support in combating clothing insecurity. As the organization continues to navigate these challenges, it plays an indispensable role in fostering stability and dignity for the youth of Westchester County. In light of this ongoing issue, local communities and potential donors are urged to consider contribution opportunities that can aid in expanding The Sharing Shelf’s impact further.
