Earlier this year, as senior Miakayla Leaverson was spring-cleaning, she purged her closet of old clothes. It wasn’t until later that she realized that those clothes she had previously thrown away could’ve gone to help a fellow woman in need. That’s why Leaverson and senior Heather Shamon are hosting the Turning Point clothing drive, which will collect new and gently used clothing to provide to victims of domestic violence and abuse.

According to their website, Turning Point states that their mission is to “provide programs and resources that enable victims/survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault to regain control of their lives.” This resonated with  Leaverson and  Shamon, and inspired them to host the drive for the shelter for their senior projects.

“We’re women too, so why not help [them] out,” Leaverson said.

“It’s important [to me] because I’m a woman myself, and it’s important because there’s a lot of abused women that need help,” Shamon said.

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Reflecting on throwing away her clothes earlier this year, Leaverson recalls the moment she realized she could have done something better with them.

Students are encouraged to donate new or gently used clothing to their first hour classes beginning Dec. 5, with the event running through Dec. 9. Posters around the school provide information to students and encourage them to “help someone out.”

This isn’t any ordinary clothing drive, though. The drive is also a contest, with the winning first hour class receiving a doughnut breakfast from Dunkin’ Donuts.

“It’s a good opportunity to give clothes to people in need and there’s a prize for it, but it shouldn’t be the only motive [for donating],” Shamon said.

A points system will be used to award points for every item of clothing donated. One pair of shorts could earn a class 2 points, while a coat could earn 10 points. The class that receives the most points by the end of the week will be declared the winner.

Boxes will be in first hour classes, and all clothing donated must be in a bag with a first hour teacher’s name on it. It is requested that no undergarments be donated.

When asked about her thoughts on the drive, Leaverson wanted everyone to know that no matter how big or small, no donation goes unnoticed or unappreciated.

“I would love for people to understand that it doesn’t have to be your [own] clothes, it’s the thought that counts. New socks could help someone in need! Put clothes in there to help someone out,” Leaverson said.

The winners of the contest will be announced on Monday, Dec. 12, and the breakfast will be served to the winning class.

Both of the sponsors said that they are excited and hopeful for the drive.

“I’m excited,” Shamon said.

“I love volunteering. I like giving back,” Leaverson said.

So, why should students donate to the drive? Leaverson was reminiscent of her own experience and the lessons learned.

“Why not [give]? If you’re going to get rid of clothes, you might as well make good use of it.”