EIN: 81-5100482
Mission Statement
To provide free clothing for school-aged children from low-income families in a dignified setting—through community donations, partner support, and purchased essentials—so they can feel comfortable and confident to learn, grow, and participate fully in school and community life.
Program Summary
The Clothesline collects clothes in new or excellent condition from the community and distributes them to low-income school-aged children – free of charge. We operate in a space that is welcoming to our clients and provides a dignified shopping experience. Families can select clothing twice per year, picking out a full wardrobe for each qualifying child. The basic wardrobe includes 5 pairs of new underwear and socks (given once per school year), 5 shirts, and 4 pants or shorts. Additionally, we usually are able to provide shoes, dresses, bras, winter coats, swimsuits, PJs, hat/gloves, and accessories, depending on availability and season. Our objective is for kids and teens to go to school feeling dignified and comfortable in their clothes so they can concentrate on their education.
Impact Statement
In 2024, thanks to the generosity of the Arlington community, we were able to deliver nearly 55,000 items of clothing to 1,545 low-income school kids in Arlington. These wardrobes of clothing included nearly 2,200 pairs of shoes as well as 2,000 coats and light jackets. These kids and families received a full season’s worth of clothing – saving them significant money for their tight budgets. We were also pleased to move to our new location in 2024, providing a new bright space for families and volunteers.
What ways can the public get involved?
You can support The Clothesline in 4 ways:
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
Your financial donations are essential to making sure every child who walks through our doors finds what they need — in their size, their style, and with the dignity they deserve. Your support allows us to fill the gaps in our inventory so no child leaves without the basics they came for, including items we must buy new (like socks and underwear) and those we rarely receive in good condition (such as shoes and bras).
Your generosity also keeps our welcoming, dignified store open — a space that’s easy for families to reach by public transportation and staffed by caring professionals who interact directly with families and guide our volunteers, making every visit personal and respectful.
Information provided March 2025