Nonprofit packs custom clothing boxes for children in need

(InvestigateTV) — A Virginia nonprofit is using volunteers to pack personalized boxes of clothing and other items for children who lack access to proper clothes.

Boxes of Basics founder Sarah Tyndall started the organization in 2018. A thousand volunteers have since built custom care packages for more than 8,500 children across Virginia.

Clothing insecurity affects children nationwide

An estimated two out of five kids nationwide experience clothing insecurity, meaning they do not have access to clothing that is properly fitted, seasonally appropriate and in good condition.

Clothing insecurity is estimated to affect 20 million children across the country.

Without proper clothes, children can skip school, face bullying and withdraw socially. Clothing insecurity can also lead to lower self-esteem.

Tyndall said she started Boxes of Basics because she saw a need.

“It was the right thing for someone to do. And if I could help these kids, then why wouldn’t I?” Tyndall said.

She described one boy who was affected.

“This little boy didn’t want to go to school because he didn’t have clothes that fit. They were worn. They were small,” Tyndall said. “And after his box of basics, he started waking up 30 minutes early every day. Just to pick out his outfit.”

How the boxes are made

Schools and shelters identify children in need, then share their sizes, favorite colors and favorite characters. Volunteers at a warehouse use that information to select clothing for each child they will never meet.

The clothes are donated. Some are new, and some are gently used.

Tyndall said every box includes:

• Four school outfits
• Four play outfits
• A dress-up outfit
• New shoes, socks and underwear
• Two age-appropriate books
• A set of pajamas
• A hygiene kit

Boxes of Basics also provides a duffle bag for children who need a way to carry their new outfits.

Hand wrapped outfits and love notes

Volunteers hand wrap each outfit and add a love note to every box.

Volunteer Cheryl Burns said the note is the part she likes most.

“I hope you like the clothes and books that I enjoyed picking out for you,” Burns said of the message. “And then I always do a smiley. That’s like my signature. When you see someone smile, it, like, brings joy.”

The organization’s goal is to spread that joy beyond Virginia.