Serve Wenatchee opens registration for back-to-school clothing event

WENATCHEE — Families who need help purchasing back-to-school clothing for their children can now register for Serve Wenatchee's annual Clothes for the Classroom event, scheduled for Aug. 8 at Columbia Grove Covenant Church.

As the cost of school clothes and supplies continues to strain many household budgets, the event aims to ease some of that financial pressure by providing children with new clothing before the first day of school. Organizers say they hope the program helps students return to the classroom feeling confident and prepared while allowing parents to focus their resources on other back-to-school expenses.

Each registered child will receive two new shirts, one new pair of pants and a brand-new pair of tennis shoes. Some school supplies will also be available while they last.

The event is designed to be more than a clothing giveaway. Children and their families will also be able to enjoy activities throughout the day, with representatives from the Wenatchee Wild and Wenatchee AppleSox expected to attend. L-Bow the Clown will also be on hand to entertain families.

Serve Wenatchee Executive Director Mike Malmin said providing new clothes can make a meaningful difference as children prepare to begin another school year.

"We believe every child regardless of income level should be able to head back to school in a new pair of clothes. There is a direct correlation between self-esteem and academic performance," Malmin said in a news release.

For many families, back-to-school shopping represents one of the largest annual household expenses outside of the holidays. Community programs such as Clothes for the Classroom are intended to bridge that gap for families who may be struggling financially, ensuring children have essential clothing for the school year regardless of their circumstances.

Registration is required, and organizers say space is limited. Parents are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible at servewenatchee.org or by calling 509-663-4673.