In the midst of the annual back-to-school distribution at the Buckner Family Hope Center™ at Reed Road, a collaboration between nonprofit Clothed by Faith and electricity provider Reliant helped provide school uniforms and clothing for South Houston children. 

Clothed by Faith and Reliant provided nearly 90 Houston-area students with four tops, two bottoms, underwear, socks and a jacket at this year’s distribution. The organizations also provided students with additional school supplies such as pens, pencils, notebooks and paper. 

“While most people know Reliant as the electricity provider for their home or business, we also have a deep commitment to supporting our neighbors and investing in future generations,” said Leanne Schneider, director of community relations for Reliant. 

Back-to-school shopping costs are rising

Collaborations such as this one are a vital part of serving vulnerable children and families while helping break the generational cycle of poverty. 

Fortune reported that parents are facing 41-year inflationary highs in 2022, which is why Buckner, Clothed by Faith, Reliant and other local organizations stepped up to make sure students have what they need to start the school year off right.

“When we support students and their families, there is a ripple effect on the entire community,” Schneider said. “Reliant is passionate about supporting our community, and we’re thrilled to help local families prepare for the school year by sponsoring school clothes and supplies for South Houston students.”  

Working together to meet needs

In addition to new uniforms and school supplies, families also received free haircuts, new shoes, school supplies and backpacks, uniforms, food and fun through various community collaborations. More than 20 families also received cell phones and iPads to equip them for school assignments and communication.

“Community collaboration is vital to best serving families in Houston,” said Dior Burns Eagan, director of administration and operations for Buckner Houston. 

“Because of that, I would like to thank the volunteers from Tomorrow’s Energy and sponsors Clothed by Faith, Reliant, Texas Party Box, Eyes on Me, and Halliburton,” she continued. “Also, thank you to our many vendors, including HISD, Youth Advocates, Trio, Harris County Public Library, and Books Between Friends.”

Sunnyside Mayor Sandra Massie Hines also attended the distribution to help make sure 280 children were ready to go back to school in style.

Learn more about programs available in Houston and how you can support vulnerable children and families.