Schriever, Peterson hold clothing swap

SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Schriever and Peterson Air Force Bases are joining forces to host the third annual children's clothing swap from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 26 at the Schriever Fitness Center.

Coordinated by commanders' spouses and unit key spouses, the clothing swap provides gently used children's clothing to Schriever and Peterson personnel.

"The clothing swap is an opportunity for young families from both Schriever and Peterson to exchange their children's clothes that are perfectly good but perhaps don't fit anymore for [items] they can use," said Amy Liquori, one of the event's coordinators. "It is a great way to de-clutter and let them pick out some new clothes, especially at [permanent change of station] time. It also makes sense financially and environmentally. The swap is a simple, cost-free way for Airmen to help each other and their families with clothes and toys that might otherwise be thrown away."

Coordinators from both installations are asking for clothing for children from newborn to 18-year-olds, school and activity uniforms, shoes, sports equipment and toys as well as maternity clothes for expecting mothers. Though families are encouraged to donate items, they are not required to do so in order to shop during the event.

"We are doing this because it is a great way for families to connect and support each other," Liquori said. "By including both bases, we should have plenty of clothes to choose from and a chance to meet new faces and have fun."

Drop boxes are available at various Schriever and Peterson locations until April 23. Schriever drop-off centers include the Child Development Center, Tierra Vista Community Center, Satellite Dish dining facility, Building 210 atrium, fitness center and North and West restricted area portals. For Peterson, the drop-off centers include the CDC, Youth Center, 21st Medical Group, chapel, and fitness center.

"This cost-free swap is a win-win situation for everyone involved; one Airmen Family helping another," said Colleen Barthel, one of the clothing swap coordinators. "Having been a part of this military for 20 plus years, I do and always will consider this great military as my family. As with any family, we are all here to help each other whenever needed. Most of us do not have our own family members close by and when and if there is support needed, the military family comes to our aid."

The clothing swap committee is also looking for volunteers to provide their time and effort to help organize the clothing swap prior to and during the event.

"We will need volunteers to help sort, fold, and set-up at the Schriever Fitness Center on April 25 starting at 12 p.m. as well as help on swap day, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with keeping things organized and neat," Liquori said. "Volunteers are extremely important as we're expecting a large amount of clothes and the more help the better. Last year, over 200 families were able to bring home new clothes for their kids. We definitely could not do this project without volunteers."

Barthel said the committee appreciates all the help that both Schriever and Peterson communities provide to assist the military families.

"Thank you to all those who have already donated at the drop-off areas throughout Schriever and Peterson," she said. "Your generosity does not go unnoticed."