COLORADO SPRINGS — Shopping for clothes may seem like a simple task, but for a teen in foster care, it's often impossible.
Whether it's due to a lack of income, or even a parent to accompany them, these teens usually have to end up wearing hand-me-downs.
But one non-profit is changing that and on Saturday, they're holding a clothing drive to provide these teens a new look - and a new sense of confidence.
All you have to do to help is drop off new or gently used clothes for kids 12-18 years old at Story Coffee Company in downtown Colorado Springs.
The clothing drive is happening Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Any clothes collected will go directly to The Hanger, which is a spot inside the office of CASA of the Pikes Peak Region where foster kids can pick out clothes for free.
Per its website, CASA of the Pikes Peak Region is a nonprofit organization that trains and supervises volunteers to represent the best interests of victims of child abuse, neglect, and severe domestic conflict. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to be a voice for these children in court and in the community.
Oftentimes, foster kids have to wear hand-me-downs that are left behind in foster homes, which may not even be their size.
But inside The Hanger, kids can choose five clothing items that represent their own style and personality, which can change their entire outlook.
"Being able to come here and choose their own clothes allows them to build confidence, allows them to look the way they want to look and allows to step out into the world feeling great about themselves," said Keri Kahn, communications director with CASA of the Pikes Peak Region.
Saturday's clothing drive is a partnership between CASA and Only Human, an organization in Colorado that partners with and highlights one non-profit across the state each month.
CASA only asks that any clothing or accessory donations to be in teen brands and in-season (so think cold weather essentials). And, of course, they say Broncos jackets are always a hit!
If you miss today's fundraiser but you would still like to donate clothes to CASA, you can stop by their offices on 418 S Weber Street on Mondays between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to drop off any donations. They accept new hygiene item donations as well.
