Our Programs
Every child enrolled in Washington County Public Schools, Head Start of Washington County, or private schools meeting the Free And Reduced Meals (FARM) program criteria is eligible for services from CIN.
Back to School Vouchers
In August, CIN gives a voucher to eligible school age children so they can participate in a controlled shopping day. Children are able to purchase a new outfit, shoes, book bag, undergarments, etc. to start a new school year. To qualify for the voucher, parents or guardians of these children must have visited the Center four (4) times during the previous school year (September 1 through May 31).
Client Monthly Visits
On behalf of their children, clients are eligible to visit the Center once a month (all year round) to receive gently used clothing (approximately 3 outfits per child), shoes, coats, hats and gloves, new underclothes (every other month), toiletries (monthly), books, and school supplies.
Donation Boxes
Children In Need, Inc. currently has 5 boxes placed in the community to collect donated items from the general public. The ultimate goal is to have 11 boxes strategically located within the county to boost collections.
Extended Services
Each week Children In Need, Inc. receives requests from WCPS school counselors, pupil/family liaisons, Pupil Personnel Workers (truant officers), the Homeless Services Coordinator, etc. We also receive requests from other local nonprofit agencies and DSS case workers for goods not usually donated to their facilities.
Examples of requested goods are:
- School supplies
- Coats
- Underclothes
- Gently used clothing
- Lice shampoo
- Toiletries
- Shoes
- Special Request items: such as extra large clothing and/or baby clothes
Always, the child and his/her family are economically challenged or identified as needing immediate services such as homelessness, domestic violence, fire, neglect, etc. These requests impact whether a child is able to stay involved in everyday school life.
School Supplies
In August & January, each school age child receives school supplies to assist with their classroom needs.
Meal Machine
The Meal Machine (WCPS Food & Nutrition) is a mobile meals program that delivers and serves free lunch to anyone 18 and under in geographical locations where 51% or more of the resident children are eligible for the FARM program. Children In Need, Inc. is a certified location that serves over 100 children each day throughout the summer (June through August).
One Foot Up (new shoes)
In August, there is an opportunity for each child enrolled in the CIN program to receive a pair of new shoes at the annual new shoe give-away. The child must be present at the event to receive shoes. The Center gives away gently used shoes throughout the year.
