Back to School clothes swap benefits community
A Back to School Drop Swap has been ongoing in Stigler.
The free Drop Swap and Shop is a shop set up that allows drop offs for clothes a person no longer uses,and children in the community can also “swap and shop” as they get clothes for the new school year. The swap is free to members of the community.
The idea for the drop swap was started in 2012 when Vicki (Bishop) Kil- gore and Cheryl (Boston) Wilson started a drop swap in Tennessee.
After its success, the two decided to start a drop swap in Haskell County, but they could not find a location.
Recently, Wilson notified Kilgore that she would be renting a building in Ke- ota and that the two should try the drop swap again. This time, Kilgore decided to start the swap in Cree- kwood Plaza in Stigler and have the Keota building as a second drop off.
The plans for the swap include combining the two locations to the Keota drop off once school starts.
“Those graciously sharing have made heartfelt changes in so many lives. The elderly on fixed in- comes, grandparents rais- ing grandchildren, single parents struggling to make ends meet, families that have experienced unexpected life changes such as loss of job or medical emergency, [have all benefited from the clothes swap]. Most importantly it has taken the stress off many households for back to school shopping. Every person swapping and shopping has been very appreciative for the community generosity,” said Kilgore.
“To say that it has been blessed is an understate- ment. The first week, items were coming as fast as they were going with the right sizes at the right times. This past Saturday, the Drop and Swap doubled in size, with a tremendous amount of drops being made.” Kilgore said.
The Stigler location is on 412 E. Main St.It is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The location will remain open until Aug. 17, when it will join with the Keota location.
The Keota location is on 114 E. Main St. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Donation drop offs also can be left at Solid Rock Cafe, 106 W. Main St., (next to 7th Hand Tire and Lube) in Keota or donations can be scheduled to be dropped off with Cheryl Wilson by sending a mes- sage to 918-552-8171, Kilgore explained.
“Everything is donated and you can swap or shop for free. No money chang- es hands. You do not have to have proof of income or residence, you do not have to sign any forms. Open to any and everyone. Just come shop and enjoy God’s blessings,” said Kilgore.
Photo 1: The Back to School Drop Swap offers plenty of clothing for shoppers. Submitted Photo.
Photo 2: A sign sits outside the Stigler location of the drop swap for those wishing to donate or shop. Staff photo by Madison Davis
Staff report