WHS Teen Dressing Young Students for Success

These days a lot of families are struggling simply to get by. Necessities like food, heat and even a home are a daily worry for families across our nation. 

What many people do not realize, however, is that here in Wilmington there are also far too many families struggling to stay afloat. Sadly, some of those families are our acquaintances, our neighbors; even our friends and most of us have no idea.

One young woman here in town, however, is working hard to make life a little easier for Wilmington’s students. Sixteen-year-old Wilmington High School student Taylor Higgins recently founded TAY2U, a charity dedicated towards collecting “fashionable” clothing donations and distributing them to the Middle School students who need help the most.

Inspired by an article that she read about a similar charity in North Carolina, Taylor looked into her own heart as well as her closet before embarking on TAY2U. Described as a “fashionista” by her mom, Denise, Taylor knew that she, as well as plenty of others teens in Wilmington, had plenty to share.

“After doing extensive research for my charity I knew that I wanted to target teens/preteens,” explained Taylor. “There are many teens in our community that feel they don’t ‘fit in’ just because they don’t have anything to wear. Some of those families don’t have the resources to buy their kids clothing.”

Granted, as adults, we should all know that labels and brands are not what makes up a person but, as Taylor knows, like it or not, labels mean a lot in Middle School.

“Middle School is where all the drama starts. It’s where you find yourself or lose yourself,” she said. “Kids are especially cruel starting in the middle school years.  Most of these kids that bully have low self esteem, self worth, are jealous or come from troubled homes. These bullies find pleasure in bullying the easiest targets because it makes them look cool.”

Taylor knows that a few designer labels can’t change the world but, with the support of Middle School principal Christine McMenimen, she is more than ready to improve more than a few lives here in Wilmington.

As soon as she heard about Taylor’s goals, McMenimen knew what a difference they could make. 

“There are a lot of families in town who need help,” said McMenimen. “Some may be ashamed to ask for support, but are very grateful when others reach out to them.”

That’s where TAY2U comes in. Working hand in hand with teachers, administrators and school nurses, TAY2U is able to provide direct support to Wilmington’s students by distributing “designer” clothes and other fashion items. 

“All donations are anonymous,” said McMenimen. “Discretion is of the utmost importance.”

Taylor said even a small donation can make a huge difference for students.

“When you look good, it makes you feel so good about yourself. There are so many other things that kids need to worry about in their early teen years,” added Taylor, “I’m just helping them get dressed and go to school.”

With donation bins in both the high school lobby and guidance office, TAY2U is well on its way to becoming an important part of Wilmington’s structure. TAY2U is currently collecting “gently worn” and even new items for both girls and boys.  Items that are not suitable to distribute within town will then be redirected to another local charity.

If you would like to make a donation or know a teen in need you can contact TAY2U at TAY2U@mail.com. Parents and students alike are also encouraged to contact their schools administrators to learn more.