Our Story

The FIT Closet, a program of the Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 school district, serves Pre-K through high school students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity (Families In Transition, or FIT).

As of December 2024, 158 students had self-identified as experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity (FIT) for the 24/25 school year.

The FIT Closet helps the school district meet the needs of qualified students by providing what they need to successfully integrate into school as well as find success in their educational journey. This assistance comes in the form of (but is not limited to) school supplies, school-appropriate clothing, shoes, coats and other essentials.

Living situations that qualify as homelessness or housing insecurity, as defined by the Kansas Department of Education, include:

• Doubling up with another family
• Living in shelters or transitional housing
• Unsheltered conditions (cars, parks, campgrounds, or abandoned buildings)
• Staying in hotels or motels

This program is entirely community-supported, with one part-time facilitator and over 45 volunteers. Local individuals, churches, businesses, and organizations generously donate supplies, ensuring the FIT Closet can serve those in need.

Thanks to this incredible community support, the FIT Closet not only aids students and families experiencing homelessness but also those who qualify for free or reduced-fee programs. The FIT Closet exemplifies the power of community in creating meaningful change for students and families in need.

Our Mission

The USD 383 FIT Closet supports McKinney-Vento qualified and FIT students enrolled in the USD 383 school district by providing essential resources, such as school supplies and appropriate clothing, to help them integrate successfully into school and thrive in their educational journey.

How we Operate

Every item in the FIT Closet has been donated or purchased with donated funds. Thanks to our generous donors, registered families access our facility free of charge, and school social workers have 24/7 access to better support their students.

We currently have a team of 45 volunteers who staff shopping and sorting hours. Our volunteer team is critical to the operation and success of the FIT Closet. We are looking for additional volunteers. If you are interested, please reach out to us.

Our work and ability to assist the families who rely on us would not be possible without the generous support of our community and the countless hours our dedicated volunteers contribute each week. 

Our Focus

The FIT Closet’s mission is focused on supporting USD 383 students between the ages of 3 and 18, or from preschool to high school seniors. This focus guides us as we sort donations. We strive to stock our shelves and racks with items that will help each student feel confident and proud to wear to school. Please consider this when deciding if your donation is the right fit for our program.