Township Expects Rise in School Clothing Aid

(posted June 18)

The Wayne Township Trustee expects an increase over last year's count of 15,000 students in need of school clothing assistance due to higher energy costs. Kevin Pinner of the trustee's office is coordinating the effort by working with social workers and home school advisors to find families in need.

Pinner announced that applications are now being accepted for the 2008-2009 school year for Wayne Township Schools, Speedway Public Schools and IPS. An appointment is necessary to determine eligibility. The number is 241-4191.

JoAnn Threatt, township director of public information, said she was involved with the school clothing assistance program last year. She said the trustee's office also is able to identify those in need through the reduced and free lunch programs. Threatt said the township does not provide all 15,000 children with clothing assistance because churches have adopted schools. She said John Knox Presbyterian Church has partnered with a school to help. "It is a good church," she said.

No cash is given, but the recipient receives vouchers that are good at K-Mart, Value City, A J Wright and Davis Jeans.

Pinner goes to the stores to price clothing to estimate the voucher's purchasing power. Depending upon the level of eligibility, some voucher amounts can usually supply up to three outfits.

Threatt said the recipients are "good shoppers" and can find good bargains to stretch the vouchers.

Threatt explained that Trustee David Baird is striving to accomplish his goal to make the Wayne Township Government Center a one stop help center. Wayne Township taxpayers who are in need of energy assistance, child support, or poor relief services can be taken care at the center, located at 5401 West Washington.