Courtesy art

ALPENA – The Salvation Army is already preparing for Back To School. School can be a time of excitement but also of worry. When a parent must send their child to school with clothes that do not fit or are worn out, they may feel embarrassed. When it is undergarments then it affects the kids too.

They cannot concentrate if undergarments are tight, torn, or have holes. The Salvation Army believes every child should have the opportunity to be successful in school and not feel uncomfortable. New, size appropriate clothing helps. That is why we are asking for donations of new undergarments. ”

We have another year where the economy is struggling so there is a lack of funds for families to provide these essential items. We have also seen an increase in requests and first-time clients for all services we provide” Major Prezza explains. “Parents have a lot of expenses before school. We hope to help them feel less overwhelmed.”

Currently, The Salvation Army is collecting new socks, underwear, undershirts for youth of all ages and sizes. Older youth need adult sizes, and these sizes are needed more. Drop off donations Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at our office location at 722 N. 2 ND Ave. in Alpena.

There is a contactless drop off box outside the office door for after hours. Collecting through Monday, August 10 for use on distribution days.

Last year we served over 698 youth with a total of 839 items distributed. Distribution day will be at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club Back to School Give Away event August 25 from 11:00am – 1:00pm. You can also call the office at 989-358-2769 the first week of August.

Monetary donations accepted via mail or in person at The Salvation Army Corps Community Center at 722 N. Second Ave Alpena, MI 49707 online www.salmich.org/alpena or via telephone, Major Prezza Morrison, (989) 358-2769 ext. 6515. Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:00pm. Thank you for your continued support of The Salvation Army of Alpena County.