Christmas Charities Year Round workers Ruth Wynn, from left, Lynn Moore, executive director Cassie Scott and Wanda Ashby survey school supplies for their “Look Sharp and Feel Smart” program. (CONTRIBUTED)

HUNTSVILLE – Christmas Charities Year Round endorses the premise, “When students look good, they feel good and are ready to learn.” To enact this belief, the charity’s “Look Sharp and Feel Smart” program will provide back-to-school clothing to 400-plus children.

The Christmas Charities Year Round non-profit organization has served Madison County since 1949. “Look Sharp and Feel Smart” started in 2011 and is free to families living at or below the poverty level who apply for assistance. The organization screens all applicants using federal poverty guidelines.

“For the month of July, families are coming to Christmas Charities Year Round excited about the new school year and knowing the agency is there to help,” executive director Cassie Watson Scott said. “The program provides each student with a like-new outfit along with new undergarments.”

Local residents are donating used clothing in good condition.

“Back-to-school (plans) can be very stressful on families trying to make it day-to-day,” Scott said. “With gas and food prices going up, it is almost impossible for our clients to save.”

“‘Look Sharp, Feel Smart’ helps relieve the financial burden of the new school year while allowing the students to start the school year confident and prepared,” Scott said.

In addition, the charity is providing students with school supplies. “Studies show that children are less likely to succeed in the classroom when they are not prepared,” Scott said. “Christmas Charities provides each student with a backpack full of school supplies.”

Parents with children receiving supplies are asked to donate $3 to $5 or to volunteer with Christmas Charities to help offset cost of backpacks and materials.

Located at 2840 Jordan Lane in Huntsville, Christmas Charities welcomes volunteers. Office hours are Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the first Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, call 256-837-2373 or visit christmascharitiesyearround.org.