United Way of Lake County (UWLC) has launched its second annual clothing drive in support of the 2025 Back-to-School Bash (BTSB), a collaborative community event spearheaded by the Lake County Family and Children First Council. 

UWLC is collecting new socks, new underwear, and new or clean gently used clothing for infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and young adults.  All donated items will be distributed to Lake County families in need at the Back-to-School Bash in August to ensure every child starts the school year with dignity and confidence.

Donations can be dropped off at United Way of Lake County, located in Mentor at 9285 Progress Parkway. Drop-off hours are Monday–Thursday 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Friday 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m.  Evening and weekend drop-offs are available by appointment by calling 440.639.1107 or emailing volunteer@uwlc.org.

UWLC kindly requests that clothing donations arrive presorted by gender and size in clearly labeled boxes or bags to help streamline the distribution process.

The organization is also looking for volunteers to help sort and prepare the clothing for distribution. Interested volunteers should email volunteer@uwlc.org.

UWLC is also accepting cash donations to help purchase socks, underwear, and school supplies. Monetary donations can be made at uwlc.org/give.  

This year's BTSB for the 2025-2026 school year will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Harvey High School in Painesville.  It is open to all Lake County families in need of support. 

In 2024, the Back-to-School Bash served 2,603 individuals.  In addition to supplying clothes to those in need, individuals had access to supply-filled backpacks, vision screenings, dental services, sports physicals, haircuts, and family portraits.