The non-profit organization Becca’s Closet started open houses on Sept. 5 at Midland High School and will continue to hold them throughout September. Becca’s Closet intends to provide students in need with a chance to find formal wear.
The organization rebranded itself as a club instead of a project. Club leader senior Rylee Marshall recounted what it was like to get things started.
“[We] held club meetings, made announcements about it, had meetings before and after school, making sure to have room for everyone who wants to get involved,” Marshall said. “This year it’s been super successful.”
Unlike other states’ closets, the club made changes such as gender neutral formal options and having an array of accessories to pair with the outfits. On open house days, students are welcomed into the school to see the downstairs closet with dresses, suits, accessories and shoes, along with fitting rooms and a help desk. They are able to tour the closet to find the outfit they need.
“The goal is to be inclusive,” adviser Amy Rankin said. “Just because you’re a girl doesn’t mean you want to wear a dress, and just because you’re a boy doesn’t mean you want to wear a dress.”
The club has made strides to advertise to other schools, and hopes to reach out to different companies for partnerships or donations. There are open houses scheduled on Sept. 18 from 6-9 pm, Sept. 21 from 12-3 pm, and Sept. 24 from 6-8 pm.