Sisters Connect with Schools to Develop, Stock Free Clothing Closets for Youth

Chanay Banks and Juanita Banks-Whittington had a mutual desire to honor the memory of their late mother’s legacy. 

“Charlene Banks was a beloved mother, sister, daughter, and friend whose kindness and generosity persisted despite her struggles with addiction and personal hardships,” Banks-Whittington revealed.

In 2023, Charlene’s Circle of Support (CCOS) became a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable youth in Maryland who are impacted by parental mental illness, substance abuse, and/or incarceration. Banks-Whittington, an author, veteran, and Anne Arundel County resident explained that she and her sister grew up receiving community support. They now provide a similar circle of support for today’s youth through their decision to brighten children’s futures by means of their nonprofit.

“Our vision is to break down barriers and foster a compassionate, empowered community where these challenges no longer dictate the futures of underserved youth. CCOS’s programs are anchored in three key pillars: awareness, support, and advocacy. These pillars form the foundation for our care package, clothing closet [Charlene’s Closet], and group mentorship programs,” said Banks-Whittington, CCOS’s co-founder. 

Anne Arundel County-based schools, such as Hillsmere Elementary School and Annapolis Middle School, have received donations from CCOS. 

Kimberly Terry, principal of Hillsmere Elementary School, located in Annapolis, Maryland explained that in recent years, student enrollment has fluctuated between 380-400 students. She further stated a few students have already needed to access the closet.

“They have always known that could come to us for academic needs and socio-emotional support. Now, we have enhanced our support with personal hygiene items and basic clothing; therefore, continuing to make Hillsmere their safe space. When students feel safe and comfortable, the learning will come,” she added.

 Terry mentioned that Hillsmere had a supply closet for younger students. Efforts to collect personal hygiene items for older students began last year with PTA support.  

“This year we have additional hygiene items and a larger variety of sizes of clothing to accommodate all students, thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Banks-Whittington.”

Personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, hair ties, brushes, combs, and basic clothing items for third through fifth graders were requested.

“Students and families are grateful that we are able to meet the needs of students without interrupting their instructional day,” Terry noted.

She added, “As I explained to Mrs. Banks-Whittington, we often receive donations of clothing for our younger students, but our older students have accidents at lunch, recess, and personally we have not had the resources in-house to help the students.  Having the closet now, we can quickly address the needs of all students in a way that maintains their dignity and allows them to quickly return to class and focus on learning,” said Terry. 

The clothing collection for Meade Middle School is underway.

Mia DiBene-Bennett, the Community School Program Manager at Meade Middle School, stated that items such as black leggings, athletic shorts, and dark-colored t-shirts have been requested from CCOS.

“Having these resources at their fingertips allows students to continue to engage in learning and concentrate on academics, rather than worrying about their appearance or lack of proper clothing,” she explained.

DiBene-Bennett anticipates that the forthcoming clothing closet should be up and running in October.

DiBene-Bennett added, “By providing this resource, Meade Middle can reduce barriers, promote student well-being, and foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment. That, in turn, helps to fulfill the vision of our strategic plan to make our school system a community where everyone can belong, grow, and succeed.”

Meade Middle School established an initial clothing closet with help from other partners. However, CCOS will further sustain it through the school year, according to DiBene-Bennet, who said that the school is grateful to receive the support.

DiBene-Bennett further stated that meeting the basic needs of students promotes regular attendance, engagement, and a more positive school experience for all students. 

Chanay Banks, CCOS’ founder and executive director, resides in Charles County. She recalled that she and her sister grew up having a strong circle of support. She said that being able to offer the same to other youth has been priceless. 

“We know our mom, Charlene, is proud of us, and continuing her legacy feels like she’s still with us, guiding us every step of the way,” Chanay proclaimed.

Chanay shared how members of the public can support CCOS. Follow the nonprofit’s social media pages; volunteer for a committee; make a tax-deductible donation; or contribute to the clothing closet through the Amazon Wish List that is available via www.charlenescircle.org.