College students from James Madison University in Virginia took a different kind of spring break this year. Instead of frolicking in the surf and sand, they chose to volunteer at Dignity U Wear, a local charitable organization that gives new clothing to people in need.
“These 12 can accomplish a week’s worth of work in four hours,” said Dignity’s director of distribution Lee Lanier.
Dignity U Wear recently relocated from Philips Highway to Myrtle Avenue downtown. A FreshMinistries board member structured a favorable lease for the warehouse space.
“It brings them closer to the population they serve and the other non-profits that they work with,” said Michael Bryant, director of urban ministries for FreshMinistries.
Alternative spring break, which is volunteering in lieu of vacationing, is a program that has been in existence for six years. Students at James Madison University have been participating for the past three years. They receive donations, which must be sorted and repacked in uniform containers to be maintained in the warehouse. Donations come from manufacturers and retailers who have overstocks, excess samples, logo overruns and seasonal merchandise. The clothes are distributed to schools, shelters, foster homes and non-profit agencies.