With a new school year starting, the Bridgeport-based “Beyond the Shepherd” is serving boys and girls throughout the county.

 

“We plan to continue to take items to all 13 elementary schools, as well as five middle and five high schools,” said Founder/Organizer Carla Yaquinta.

 

A volunteer who served through the Shepherd’s Corner outreach program, Yaquinta decided a couple of years ago to create “Beyond the Shepherd” to take the outreach effort into local schools.

 

She takes new and gently-used clothing, as well as new socks and underwear, to the various schools which in turn distribute the items to students who need nice school attire.

 

As she prepares her deliveries to schools, Yaquinta said she is still collecting gently-used school outfits for boys and girls – especially short-sleeve shirts and shorts size 4 and up – as well as new undergarments and socks. As weather turns colder, there will be need for warmer clothing items and coats.

Yaquinta, who is assisted in the project by various friends and helpers, said she continues to be touched by the community’s outpouring and desires to help with the project.

 

Just this past Sunday, a woman approached her with items at church. She had heard Yaquinta speak at a recent Women of Faith luncheon.

 

To make arrangements to donate items, contact Yaquinta at Carla.yaquinta@gmail.com.

 

Read more about Shepherd's Corner, located on Pennsylvania Avenue in Bridgeport and operated by volunteers HERE.