On October 9, representatives from five Lake County school districts attended a complimentary dinner at the Innsbrook Country Club, where they discussed the Merrillville Rotary Club’s initiatives for the Clothing Our Children Campaign. Attendees received updates on 2024 statistics and learned about upcoming fundraising events. They were also invited to the Rotary Club’s highly anticipated fourth annual Murder Mystery dinner, scheduled for October 25 at the Hellenic Banquet Center in Merrillville.
Since 2004, the Merrillville Rotary Club’s Clothing Our Children campaign has provided winter clothing for disadvantaged children in five Lake County, Indiana, schools. The campaign has raised more than $619,950 to date, directly benefiting over 8,226 children, with all proceeds after event expenses going to support families in need.
Over the years, the need for assistance has increased, driven by ongoing economic challenges that affect many local families. The Clothing Our Children program offers vouchers for clothing at Kohl's which are distributed by school counselors and social workers based on family needs.
Charlene Zager, a social worker and school counselor at Liberty Elementary School in Hobart, has seen how this program benefits the community.
"It was a principal of mine who first heard about this through a Rotarian, which is how Hobart schools became involved,” she said. “Since then, we've seen the event grow to include other schools. I think it’s crucial to inform teachers, staff, and administrators about how this resource can benefit our families."
Zager also described the reactions of parents who receive assistance.
“Parents are incredibly grateful—many are completely surprised when they receive vouchers. We've seen tears, hugs, and families who didn’t know how they were going to make it or provide for their children. It's a blessing for them, and they’re so happy.”
The Clothing Our Children campaign is designed not only to meet practical needs but also to uplift children by providing them with new clothing for the winter months.
“The children, whether they know the clothes came from this program or not, walk in with their heads held high and smiles on their faces, proudly showing off their new outfits,” Zager said.
In 2023, the Rotary Club raised $37,500 for the campaign, and in 2024, that amount increased to $46,700. The club's goal for 2025 is to distribute 600 clothing vouchers, continuing their efforts to provide for local families.
Beyond Clothing Our Children, the Merrillville Rotary Club engages in other community support programs, such as Meals on Wheels and scholarships for local students. These initiatives, like the winter clothing program, rely on the efforts of volunteers and community donations.
The Merrillville Rotary Club is hosting its 4th annual Murder Mystery Dinner, Tragedies at the DAFT Awards, on October 25th. Guests are invited to dress like Hollywood stars and walk the red carpet at this glamorous, interactive event. Professional actors will provide entertainment as attendees work together to solve the mystery surrounding the DAFTA tragedies. Dinner and wine are included, with a cash bar available. This event is the Rotary Club’s biggest fundraising night, helping to support local charitable programs like Clothing Our Children.
For more information on the Clothing Our Children campaign and how to participate in fundraising events or contribute, visit Merrillville Rotary Club or find them on Facebook.