More Than 250 Detroit-area Students To Receive School Uniform Vouchers From Forman Mills

Sept. 4, 2009 - PRLog -- Forman Mills—a Philadelphia-area, value-based discount retailer committed to providing consumers in underserved markets with significant discounts on high-profile brand fashions — is helping to send more than 250 Detroit-area students back to school this year “outfitted” for success.

From 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9, pre-identified students will have visit the Forman Mills Warren and Conner store (11950 East Warren Avenue, Detroit) to redeem vouchers for free school uniforms and make their apparel selections. Voucher recipients can receive two pairs of pants and three shirts. The vouchers are valued at $30 each.  While students shop, they will be treated to tasty treats, live entertainment and giveaways.

The vouchers have been be awarded to disadvantaged students from Detroit Public Schools (DPS) and neighboring educational facilities.  

"Detroit Public Schools welcomes and appreciates community partners who want to get
involved in our schools," said Robert Bobb, Emergency Financial Manager for DPS.  
"Through our combined effort and support we can inspire children to excellence.  Each one of us has this power to impact the life of a child in some way. This is a generous example."

The clothier partnered with Angel Land, a non-profit organization devoted to the overall care and development of children and their families, and TWW & Associates, an organization that seeks to prepare individuals for the 21st century workforce. Angel Land and TWW have identified prospective voucher recipients through a work database and will distribute vouchers to those deemed in need. Together, Angel Land and TWW help to bring low-income families together by maximizing community involvement and removing barriers that separate many people from employment and self-sufficiency.  

“Forman Mills’ actions are inline with our mission to save lives and build futures! What better way to get our children ready for school,” said Terri Henderson, President and Founder of Angel Land Child Care & Parent Institute.

“Forman Mills believes in giving students the tools they need to succeed,” said Rick Forman, president and CEO of Forman Mills. “Children shouldn’t dread going to school because they lack the proper clothing, or be afraid they’ll be made fun of for not wearing the styles their friends are wearing. If we can help remove that burden for some students, we’re happy to do it. We want students to concentrate on being students.”

DPS has a dress code, which is established by each school’s principal and varies by school.  During the application process, students detailed their dress code requirements, allowing Forman Mills to order items accordingly.

“We’re thrilled that we have the opportunity to do our part to ensure that no child is left behind,” adds John W. Cromer, community and faith based liaison for Angel Land Child Care & Parent Institute.  “There is no way to explain the joy and sense of relief that parents and students expressed when they found out about these vouchers.  Without their assistance, many of these families just didn’t know how they would pay for school uniforms. ”

In addition to the Warren and Conner location, Forman Mills can also be found in Highland Park at the Model T Plaza and in the Bel-Air Centre on 8 Mile Road in Detroit.

Renowned for low prices, bright-yellow facades and catchy slogans, FORMAN MILLS is a Philadelphia-area based retailer with more than 25 store locations.  The company is committed to bringing top quality goods at rock-bottom prices to consumers in underserved communities

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