Updated 10:51 a.m., June 1–
By Mike Hazlip— A clothing store that opened as a way to benefit in-need students and families in Citrus Heights says its received plenty of donations but is now actively seeking more customers.
The Underground Clothing Connection store opened last November in Sunrise Mall and stocks everything a traditional clothing store carries, including shoes, clothes and accessories. Everything in the store is available for free to anyone who qualifies for assistance.
Store volunteer Gina Camacho told The Sentinel in an email Friday that efforts are currently underway to reach families in the San Juan Unified School District who need clothing and other items. She said any family with a school-age child in Citrus Heights is also welcome.
“We need to somehow get the word out to foster parents and group homes,” Camacho said. “All needy children in Citrus Heights area. Any community organization/church etc., can refer a family.”
The store’s presence in the mall is an effort to make it easier for students to take advantage of the program. Organizers found that students were reluctant to get clothes from their school’s clothing closet out of fear of being teased by their peers.
Underground Clothing Connection is located next to See’s Candies inside Sunrise Mall. Hours of operation are currently Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The store was opened as a project led by the Citrus Heights Homeless Assistance Resource Team, a local nonprofit. Those with questions about the store can email citrusheightshart@gmail.com.
*Correction: An initial version of this story indicated the store had moved locations inside the mall. This reference has been removed. Current hours of operation have also been updated.
