Uniform clothing drive continues, gift cards offered for donations

JACKSON, Tenn. — For the past few years, the Jackson-Madison County School System, along with Corey’s Gifts, have held a uniform drive.

“There were so many families who were in need of uniform clothing. Since six years ago, each year we help 300 families who are in dire need of uniform clothing,” said Rhonda Bigham, school and community engagement advisor.

Bigham said that they are looking for new and gently used clothing.

The drive began Monday, July 15 and will continue until the 31st of this month.

JMCSS Board of Education is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. to accept donations.

“Tops, of course black and white polos, the bottoms are the tan khaki, blue khaki and black khaki pants. Shorts, skirts and jumpers,” said Bigham.

If any family needs clothing, they should reach out to their school counselor.

“So, it’s a referral process. They will submit those to me and then we will get those out to the families,” said Bigham.

She said they have had so much support so far.

“We have community stakeholders who donate, anonymous people who live in the community. We have partnerships with Outback Steakhouse, partnerships with Elite Dental and, of course, staff members within the district donate to the cause,” said Bigham.

Tanji Tyson, the attendee secretary for JMCSS as well as the senior manager at Outback Steakhouse, said that Outback Steakhouse is always looking for community projects to participate in.

“This is definitely one that we have now been doing for 4 years. And for those that can donate a full uniform, that could be a top and a bottom, you would actually receive an Outback gift card that we’re gonna give you for a free appetizer for you to come back and visit Outback as well,” said Tyson.

She said that last year, Outback donated three to four totes to JMCSS.

“We’re looking to increase that this year. Again, it’s just a great opportunity for anyone in the community to come out and support,” said Tyson.

Clothing may be dropped off at the participating locations during their normal hours.

For information regarding drop-off locations and times, click here.

For more Madison County news, click here.