Continuing an impactful community tradition, the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation will provide over 170 children across Cassia and Minidoka counties with clothes for school during their annual Julie’s Clothes for Kids event on Aug. 1 from 6:30-10:30 a.m.
“Julie’s Clothes for Kids is a staple initiative for our foundation,” said Kellee Belnap, director of Young Caring for Our Young. “It’s an event with a touching history, and throughout its tenure, has supported several families in need. We’re grateful for all of the partners and volunteers who make this effort possible.”
Held at the Walmart on 385 Overland Avenue in Burley, Idaho, the event will enlist the help of local volunteers — including individuals from the Young Automotive Group’s three locations in the area. Those in attendance will shop for a student that’s been selected by Cassia and Minidoka’s school districts, and receive a $150 gift card through the foundation’s KIND Fund program to purchase items on their behalf.
Apart from clothing, volunteers at Young GMC Burley have stuffed backpacks with class supplies for each student. Once shopping has concluded, items will be distributed to the appropriate schools. Educators will then deliver the donations to the children.
“One thing we’re excited about with this year’s event is the opportunity to introduce more individuals to the KIND Fund,” said Belnap. “Through the program, people can help clothe kids in need on their terms instead of waiting for an event. Rather than just serving children one day a year, this will give us the opportunity to aid Cassia and Minidoka’s districts all year long.”
A program launched in 2022, the KIND Fund — which stands for Kids In NeeD — empowers volunteers to provide clothing to local students. Once an educator makes a request on behalf of a child, a volunteer is given a gift card to shop for them. Individuals are also able to make a monetary donation through the program’s app. To date, the KIND Fund has clothed approximately 7,000 children in need across Utah and Idaho.
Julie’s Clothes for Kids began in 2019 as a tribute to community member Julie Breshears. The event has since been held in her honor by the foundation and Young Automotive Group.
“Our dealerships in Burley look forward to participating in this each year,” said Matt Rosenlund, general manager of Young GMC Burley. “It provides us with an opportunity to engage with the community outside of the showroom and make a difference in a place that we love.”
To participate in Julie’s Clothes for Kids, visit https://thinkcaring.org/events/julies-clothes-for-kids/
