As much as we have all rightly had our minds on making sure those who need it have access to enough food in the coming days (or weeks), there is another need we must not ignore. Families struggling to get by do not always have the resources to buy clothing as children grow, seasons change and maybe even employment situations evolve.

Organizations such as the Zonta Club of the Mid-Ohio Valley try to help with events such as the biannual Unique Boutique — for which donations are being collected at the Reno Community Center from 4-8 p.m. through Thursday.

“We ask that people donate men’s, women’s and children’s clothing as well as accessories like purses, bags, shoes and belts,” said Club Treasurer Christine Lisk.

Those who donate feminine hygiene products have the opportunity to attend the event 30 minutes early on Friday. Hygiene products are donated to Delicates for Dignity.

In addition to providing an affordable shopping experience (on Saturday, the $10 bag sale allows attendees to fill up a 13 gallon trash bag with clothes), the primary beneficiary of the club’s fundraisers is the Washington State College of Ohio’s scholarship program for non-traditional female students.

Then there is the Coats for Kids program. You’ve probably seen collection bins throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley, placed by the AmeriCorps Seniors Retired Senior Volunteer Program. It’s not just for kids. The organization is looking for coats, hats, gloves and scarves for children AND adults.

Distribution will be Tuesdays and Thursday in November (excluding Thanksgiving) and the first week of December.

“As the weather gets colder, please donate items that are too small or that you no longer need to the Coats for Kids project,” said Carla Westfall, director of AmeriCorps Seniors – RSVP.

There are other ways to donate, such as the Salvation Army or the Arc of the Mid Ohio Valley thrift shops.

But this is key: Do NOT donate anything you wouldn’t wear yourself because of the condition it is in. If it doesn’t fit, or your tastes have changed, fine. But if it is stained, ripped, has a broken zipper or missing pieces, think about whether you would want the person shopping for clothing to know you were the person who gave it.

Many of us have closets filled with perfectly good, gently used clothing we no longer wear. It’s just taking up space; and someone else needs it. Take a look at your wardrobe and consider how you might clear out some clutter AND help a vulnerable individual or family when they need it most.