The Trendy Tiger Giving Closet has officially opened for business in the Cohoes High School after months of preparation.
Board President Margaret Giller, Superintendent Peggy O’Shea, Principal Laura Tarlo, Cohoes City Director of Economic & Community Development Steve Napier, administrators, staff and students gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony on the morning of April 4.
The Trendy Tiger, a student-run giving closet – providing clothing, shoes and accessories – is available to all students, regardless of their financial circumstances. The concept was developed by Lori Hickey, an aide in the CHS Functional Skills classroom, after recognizing a need for such an initiative in the school community.
“As a grandmother of six, I know how hard it can be to supply everyone with clothing and other necessities. There’s a lot of hand-me-downs and ‘growing into things,’” said Hickey, who thought it would be a great idea for the school community to do the same – to donate things they no longer use or wear, and to give back to our students who might want or need them.
Special Education teachers Lydia Cappadionia and Meg Brownell, along with a team of volunteers, converted a former food pantry space into a boutique where students can shop for items they may need. The Student Council donated $300, which was used to purchase shelving.
The closet will be operated by student volunteers (with teacher supervision), and will be open during lunch periods.
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from teachers, students and the community, and for the many donations that we have received,” said Principal Tarlo. “We’re so excited that it will meet the needs of all of our students. It’s a proud moment for Cohoes High School.” At this time, clothing donations are continuing to be accepted. Additionally, there is a need for the following items:
- Newly packaged boys and girls socks
- Newly packaged undergarments for adolescent boys and girls
- Laundry detergent
- Hair brushes, hair ties
- Body spray
- Storage containers (new or used)
- Laundry baskets (new or used)
- Reusable shopping bags
Please contact the High School office at 518-237-0100 ext. 1400 if you are interested in donating.