Established in 2007, Gloucester High School’s Care Closet impacts students’ and families’ lives daily. It takes on a second meaning for our special needs students who help maintain the closet. The teachers here at GHS, Mrs. Hartley, and Mrs. Rowe, are instrumental in making the Care Closet accessible to everyone.
The Care Closet, run by the special education department, opens up doors for students such as preparing for job opportunities outside of school, and gives the students an opportunity to give back to their community. “It’s not always kids in need coming to the closet,” says Mrs. Hartley. Students who know about the closet often find comfort in the environment. Mrs. Hartley explains that students come daily for a new shirt to match their outfit or even just a snack. Students, churches, Liberty College, and other organizations continue to donate. The students who help run the closet make food packages, clothing bags, female hygiene bags, and so much more.
An important factor of the care closet is that it provides life skills for special needs students getting ready for the workforce. Brandon, the “chief folder” for the Care Closet, states “My favorite part is doing laundry, folding clothes, and taking food bags to people.” Before the opportunity of helping with the Care Closet Brandon had never done laundry. Others help by sorting items, preparing bags, and keeping the closet organized. All of these tasks contribute to the skills needed to enter the workforce.
