The Arlington Kiwanis Club recently presented its Distinguished Service Award to Linda Dussault and Kimberly Meno, founders of Kids' Kloset.

Kids' Kloset is a 100 percent volunteer-operated nonprofit organization that provides new and quality used clothing to children in the Arlington, Lakewood and Darrington school districts. The mission is "Enhanced learning through nurtured self-esteem," and the organization's goal is to meet the clothing needs of children in a friendly, positive atmosphere.

Qualifying families are able to "shop" at Kids' Kloset, which is open at regularly scheduled times each week. Each child has a shopping list that specifies the quantity of each clothing item they may choose. They select clothing for one school week plus new socks and shoes, new underwear, hygiene products, school supplies and a book, all free of charge.

Kids' Kloset has served over 4,500 children since opening its doors in May 2005. This past year, the volunteers served nearly 1,800 children in Arlington, Lakewood and Darrington school districts.

Recently the organization expanded its inventory to include prom and special occasion clothing for teens, making it possible for local high schoolers to participate in special events on a budget.

Photo: Linda Dussault receiving the Kiwanis Distinguished Service Award from Arlington Kiwanis Secretary David Boulton.

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