A collection of Old Town Alexandria’s favorite boutiques is holding their first-ever collaborative fundraiser for The Center for Alexandria’s Children, the group announced Monday.
From June 14 to June 29, 529 Kids Consign, Monday’s Child, Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop, Old Town Books Jr., Penny Post, Pippin Toy Co., and Red Barn Mercantile will be raising much-needed funds and in-kind donations to support the Center’s vital mission to end child abuse.
As Alexandria’s Nationally Accredited Child Advocacy Center, the Center for Alexandria’s Children delivers evidence-based prevention, intervention, and education programs that respond to abuse, prevent future harm, and equip adults to be protectors of childhood.
“Every child deserves protection from abuse and neglect. Even in our cherished community, the need is real. By saving childhood, we create opportunities for children to feel loved, safe, and empowered to reach their full potential,” said Teri Cheshire, acting director, The Center for Alexandria’s Children.
“The work of The Center is so important and as a mom, a children’s boutique owner, and resident of Alexandria this is a cause I didn’t hesitate to support,” said Monday’s Child owner Maura Burchette. “Supporting our community is what small businesses do best and we want to continue that tradition.”
Fundraising efforts include:
· Clothing drive at 529 Kids Consign (122 S. Royal Street), and Monday’s Child (127 S. Fairfax Street), to fill The Center’s ALX Closet, a place where families in crisis can get clothing, coats, socks, and underwear. Bring in gently used clothing or purchase from the boutiques on the spot.
· Collecting donations of period products and new undergarments for ALX Closet from Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop (102 N. Fayette Street).
· Raising unrestricted funds that go directly to support The Center’s mission at Old Town Books Jr. (130 S. Royal Street), and Penny Post (1201 King Street).
· Raising in-kind donations of books, stuffed animals, and layette items at Red Barn Mercantile (1117 King Street), and Pippin Toy Co. (1310 King Street), for The Center’s 11 Learn&PlayGroups™, playgroups that bolster protective factors to make families strong and children safe.
· Stone Soup Holding Co., the parent company of Penny Post, Pippin Toy Co., and Red Barn Mercantile will match monetary donations up to $1,000.
“We are excited to launch what we hope is a regular initiative of boutique fundraising in Old Town and we invite our customers and community to join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of Alexandria’s children,” said Emily Coccia, owner of Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop.
The fundraiser kicks off on June 14 and runs through June 29. Monetary donations are not tax deductible, and will go to The Center’s general fund where they will put the money to use where the need is greatest.