WHO: EMS CLOSET, City of Columbia Mayor’s Office, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, City of Columbia Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, Richland School District One, Richland School District Two
WHAT: EMS CLOSET, a volunteer-driven nonprofit founded by three generations of educators, is launching its annual “On the Right Foot: Back-to-School Clothing Drive” on Thursday, May 29, 2025 in partnership with the City of Columbia Mayor’s Office. This vital initiative aims to provide 400 students in Richland School Districts One and Two with essential clothing, shoes, and personal care items before the first day of school in August.
What’s Needed:
EMS CLOSET is collecting new items to meet the needs of students from Pre-K through 12th grade, including:
- Clothing & Shoes: 400 pairs of shoes, 2,800 pairs each of socks and underwear, 2,400 shirts, and 1,600 pairs of pants or shorts
- Personal Care Items: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotion, and shampoo/conditioner sets
- Additional Support: 400 backpacks, books, and stuffed animals
- For Older Students (approx. 150 youth): Deodorant, laundry detergent sheets, and feminine hygiene packs
How You Can Help:
- Donate new clothing or supplies
- Become a drop-off location partner
- Make a financial contribution to help meet remaining needs
- Share this initiative with your networks
“Federal assistance covers housing, food, and energy—but clothing remains an unmet basic need,” says founder Tommie Wingate at EMS CLOSET. “With over 34,000 children living in poverty across Richland One and Two, this drive ensures students can start the school year with dignity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed.”
WHEN:
- Kick-Off Press Conference: Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.
- Donations Accepted: June 2 – August 2
WHERE:
- Kick-Off Press Conference Location: John’s Episcopal Church, 2827 Wheat St, Columbia, SC 29205
- Donation drop-off locations:
- Palmetto Citizens Credit Union: Beltline Branch, 2200 N Beltline Blvd, Columbia, SC 29204
- Palmetto Yoga & Wellness:111 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd., Columbia, SC
- CBD Pharmacy of Columbia: 3407 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29204
- John’s Episcopal Church: 2827 Wheat St., Columbia, SC (Open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday)
- City Hall – City of Columbia: 1737 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
- Family Promise of the Midlands: 1333 Omarest Dr., Columbia, SC 29210 (Open 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday)