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Goal

The purpose of The Panther Closet is to provide students in need with access to essential items, such as clothing, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, and pantry goods, completely free of charge, while also offering them a dignified and empowering experience. Traditionally, items are selected and provided for students based on need, but this store creates a new opportunity: it allows students to “shop” for themselves, choosing what they like and what fits best. This approach not only meets practical needs, but also restores a sense of normalcy, independence, and joy in the process, ensuring every student feels seen, respected, and supported. 

What will be done with my students

In order to accomplish this goal, we will need to convert an unutilized classroom into a "store". This store will have different sections designated to clothing, shoes, school supplies, backpacks, and pantry items.  

Benefits to my students

The expected outcomes of this project are many:

1. Increased Student Confidence and Dignity
By allowing students to select items themselves, the store fosters a sense of ownership, independence, and self-worth, reducing stigma often associated with receiving assistance.

2. Improved Attendance and Academic Performance
When students have the supplies, clothing, and food they need, they are more likely to attend school consistently, focus in class, and participate fully in their education.

3. Enhanced Sense of Belonging
Providing a space where all students can shop in a dignified way promotes inclusion and helps students feel more connected to their school community and loved and cared for by the adults in their lives.

4. Reduced Financial Strain on Families
The store eases the burden on families facing economic hardship by supplying essential items at no cost, allowing them to prioritize other needs.

5. Development of Life Skills
The act of “shopping” encourages decision-making, responsibility, and personal expression, skills that contribute to overall development.

6. Stronger School-Community Relationships
The store creates opportunities for partnerships with local organizations and donors, strengthening the network of support for students and their families.

7. Early Identification of Student Needs
By engaging students in a supportive setting, staff may more easily identify additional needs and connect students with further resources or support services. 

Budget Narrative

The School Counseling office of Collier County Public Schools works hard to provide students with a sense of purpose and belonging. Not only will the students and families of Gulfview Middle School benefit from the goods provided in the store, but it provides our families that have an abundance of resource a chance to serve our community by helping provide donations that will stock our store. It reaches literally every student, teacher, and family in our community, helping to provide a place where students feel they belong, know they are loved, and can thrive to their very greatest potential.  

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