Andrew’s Closet provides much more than a spare shirt or two

Racks of clothes, a stylized mannequin, and a helping hand can all be found at Andrew’s Closet, a place where students can receive gently worn casual and dress clothes free of charge, all donated by Andrew High School staff.

Andrew’s Closet is an idea generated by Fashion Club sponsors and Andrew teachers Tycee Sasso and Danielle Grove. It began last year out of a student need for business clothing, helping students with appropriate fashion for interviews and jobs. It has expanded from a clothes rack in the corner of Sasso’s classroom to a dedicated space about the size of a walk-in closet, with casual clothes, along with outerwear, shoes and accessories.

Andrew Family & Consumer Sciences teacher Tycee Sasso said, “I discovered that students needed casual clothes when one student came to me after PE and needed to change her shirt. Another student shared with me that her family was facing struggling times and was in need of clothing. That is when I asked myself if more students need clothes too."

On the first day Andrew’s Closet opened this year, 11 students attended and “shopped” among the shirts, tops, sweaters, pants, jeans, shorts, dresses, suits, ties and shoes - all available at no cost. Students can also set up private appointments to view the clothes without worrying about who’s watching.

The Closet isn’t just for students in need. Students who require a special occasion outfit or a piece for a Halloween or theater costume are also welcome. Even new teachers who may be in need of additional professional dress are encouraged to utilize the Closet.

Special Services teacher Danielle Grove said, “Staff have been very supportive with donations. It’s so great to be at a school where the staff cares so much about all students.”

Andrew’s Closet is a group effort. Some special education students plan to help fold and size clothing and Fashion Club members plan to help coordinate outfits.

Andrew Fashion and Interior Design 3 seniors Kinsey Shoemaker and Femi Biju are helping organize and market Andrew’s Closet. Biju said, “This is great for students who get dress-coded and need an item, it’s great for students who might need a little help, and it’s great for special occasions.”

Kinsey Shoemaker, who plans to study fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design and hopes to one day make clothing out of recycled materials to help prevent clothing from ending up in landfills said, “Clothing is one of the biggest contributors to landfills. This is a great way to recycle clothing. I have bags of clothes I intend to donate when I graduate.”

Donations for Andrew’s Closet can be dropped off at the Andrew High School south main entrance welcome desk during school hours- Attention: Andrew’s Closet Room 110.