Hangers Receives $25,000 from State Farm Grant

The EVSC Foundation announced that a $25,000 grant from State Farm’s Neighborhood Assist program, will be awarded to Hangers, a clothing resource that provides clothing and hygiene supplies for nearly 2,500 EVSC students every year. The grant, currently in its seventh year, inspires and empowers people to turn caring into doing.

To receive the grant, the EVSC Foundation first had to submit a grant proposal which was selected as a finalist out of thousands of nationwide submissions. Once a finalist, the EVSC Foundation competed against 199 other finalists to receive the highest number of votes. The public could vote 10 times a day, every day for 10 days for their favorite charitable cause.

“Hundreds of supporters voted, shared social media posts, and cheered for Hangers to win,” said Maureen Barton, EVSC Foundation executive director. “When you witness students saying, ‘Everything I own is in this bag.’ or ‘may I take another toothbrush for my sister because we share?’ the cause speaks for itself and the community responded.”

The $25,000 grant allows Hangers to purchase additional clothing and supplies for students, helping to ensure all students have the necessary clothing and supplies to be successful in school whether they are experiencing a short-term transition, house fire, poverty, or affected by homelessness.

“At any given time, any one of us may need a helping hand and that is what Hangers does,” said Dave Schutte, director of Hangers. “State Farm and our community’s support positions us to act as a valuable resource for EVSC.”

According to Barton, the impact of Hangers goes beyond the student—it reaches families, volunteers, team members, local businesses, and the EVSC family. Hangers helps reduce barriers so students can focus on what is important...their education.”

Hangers accepts new, gently-used clothing and financial contributions. Hangers also offers volunteer opportunities and tours for organizations looking to support students. Hangers is located at the EVSC’s Academy for Innovative Studies, 2319 Stringtown Road (entrance off Wedeking Avenue) and is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. for donation drop-offs.

“This grant is truly a reflection of our great school corporation and community,” Barton said. “The outpouring support affirms that Hangers is truly making a difference in the lives of students. We would like to extend a big ‘Thank You’ to State Farm, our community and the EVSC family for their amazing support,” said Barton.

For more information on Hangers and the EVSC Foundation, visit www.EVSCFoundation.org.