The Kids Dress for Success Back to School program, a prime project of the Community Service Club, provides new clothes for eligible elementary-school children at the beginning of the school year.

In 1996, a member of the Community Service Club read an article in the Danbury News Times about a program being sponsored for children in need within the Danbury school system. After discovering that there was a similar need in New Fairfield, she presented the idea to the club, which has embraced it ever since. Not only do members fundraise for the program but we actually do the shopping for the outfits that will make kids first days of school a feel-good experience.

Research has found that students who feel good about themselves will be more confident and that confidence in turn helps them excel in school. It has been proven time and time again that self-esteem plays an important part in academic success. Children have missed the entire first week of school in order to avoid being compared to other children in their new school clothes.

The club relies on fundraisers and community assistance to reach its goal of providing 2 outfits, undergarments, pajamas, sneakers, a winter coat, a backpack and school supplies for each eligible child.

This year (2022), 160 children in grades K-5 are eligible at a cost of approximately $250 per child. Every dollar donated brings us closer to reaching our goal and every child closer to reaching his or her full potential.