TYLER, Texas – In a move that puts practical help at the heart of student life, Kilgore College’s Longview campus has opened a clothing donation closet. The closet, originally created to give speech‑class students proper attire for presentations, now serves any student who needs clothing for daily wear or job interviews.
How the closet works
Students, faculty and community members can bring gently used clothing and shoes to either the Longview campus or the Devall Center at Kilgore College’s main campus in Kilgore. The items are sorted and displayed in a dedicated space where anyone in need can select what they require, free of charge.
Why it matters for families
“You never know what somebody may need. Sometimes, you know how they say ‘life be lifing.’ You never know when it’s going to start lifing on you, so when an instance like that happens, we are here to help the students,” said Tracy Fletcher, a social‑services benefit navigator at Kilgore College. “We want them to be successful. We want to try to help them bridge the gap and meet the needs that they have for them and their families so they can be successful.”
Fletcher’s comments highlight the broader mission: the closet is not just about clothing; it is about giving families a stable foundation. When a student can dress appropriately for an interview or a classroom setting, the ripple effect can improve confidence, academic performance, and future employment prospects.
Community involvement
The initiative relies heavily on local generosity. Residents are encouraged to donate gently used garments, shoes, and accessories. Kilgore College staff will regularly check the closet to ensure it remains stocked with a variety of sizes and styles suitable for both men and women.
Local businesses have already shown support, with several offering to host collection bins at their storefronts. This partnership extends the reach of the closet beyond campus borders, making it easier for community members to contribute.
Impact on students
Since its informal start, the closet has already helped dozens of students. One sophomore shared that a new pair of shoes gave her the confidence to attend a career fair, leading to an internship offer. Another student, who was preparing for a job interview, found a professional‑looking blazer that he said “made all the difference.”
These stories illustrate how a simple resource can change a student’s trajectory, aligning with Kilgore College’s commitment to student success and community partnership.
How to get involved
Anyone wishing to donate can drop items off during regular campus hours at the Longview location or at the Devall Center on the main campus. For those unable to transport items, the college is coordinating a pickup service for bulk donations.
For more information, students and community members can contact the college’s social‑services office or visit the college’s website, where a schedule of donation‑drop times and additional volunteer opportunities is posted.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
