21 August 2013

More than 90 low-income students from the White Center area of Seattle received new back-to-school clothing today. For some of these students, it’ll be their first experience shopping for their own clothes. Thanks to Mrs. Jean Renny, long-time Salvation Army donor, each kid received about $200 to shop at JCPenney in Southcenter Mall. 

The kids chosen for the generous donation were selected by The Salvation Army, using State and Federal guidelines to assess need. All kids are students in Seattle public schools (grades K – 12), and most live and attend school in the White Center area. The kids had the store to themselves; shopping began at 7:30am. Mrs. Renny, now in her 90s, says she believes giving children a fresh start to the school year enables them to focus more on their education, rather than their ability to fit in. She began this annual project in 2004 and is the sole funder of the event.

Mrs. Renny is a native of Seattle, and now lives in a nursing home near downtown. She didn’t have a direct connection to White Center community, but learned about the challenges of many families there and was determined to help. (White Center is a diverse community, English is the second language of most kids. Plus, most kids receive free or reduced cost lunches at school – another indicator of the economic challenges most families experience.) Mrs. Renny is a widow; she didn’t have siblings or children, so happily shares her good fortune with kids at The Salvation Army. 

The shopping event is organized by Major Raymond Erickson-King, Officer in charge of The Salvation Army White Center Corps. “Every day we see kids at our community center with clothing and shoes that are worn out or don’t fit them properly,” said Major Erickson-King. “It gives a kid a feeling of confidence when they have their own new clothing, and that confidence can help lead to success in school.” Most of the kids shopping also participate in Salvation Army programs throughout the school year, including after-school tutoring, athletic leagues, and evening/weekend meals, all provided free of charge to families in need.

A team of volunteers participated as chaperones at the event, giving each child one-on-one shopping help. Scheduled to volunteer are members of the Boeing Machinists Union, Bluebills (Boeing retirees and spouses), and Salvation Army Advisory Council members.  

Mrs. Renny was not able to attend the shopping event, due to health issues. However, she’ll receive a video of the kids shopping, and every kid will sign “thank you” notes for her.