Helping Kids Stay Warm and Confident
On the coldest days of winter, some Lincoln kids—kids just like you—head to school without warm clothes. Fitting Futures changes that by providing brand-new outfits that fit, feel good, and give kids the confidence to take on the day, no matter how chilly it gets.
Last year alone, Fitting Futures distributed over 5,000 new outfits—and winter is the season when their impact matters most. We chatted with Co-Founder Kelly Lauer to see how Fitting Futures is helping kids in Lincoln.
Q: What do the kids receive?
Kelly:
Selected students get a Bundle of Joy, which includes two brand-new outfits, socks, underwear, shoes, and a hygiene kit with essentials like body wash, deodorant, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Q: Why is this work so important?
Kelly:
For some, it’s their first time owning anything with tags on it. Though it’s just a 20-minute session, students walk away with fresh confidence and a real sense of being cared for. That feeling of being seen, of being worthy of new clothes, makes an impact that can’t be measured in dollars. It sets the tone for how they show up in the world.
Q: Can you share a moment that really moved you?
Kelly:
One older boy came in with his siblings; he was helping out his mom, who worked three jobs. He quietly watched his brothers and sisters pick out clothes, making sure everyone was set. But as they walked toward the door, he sprinted back, wrapped me in a hug, and whispered, “I can’t wait to see my mom’s face when she sees all these clothes.” In that moment, you could see how important it was for him that his siblings were able to have brand-new clothes.
Want to Help Other Kids Feel Their Best?
Fitting Futures loves helpers—grown-ups and kids alike! You can donate, help pack hygiene kits, or spread the word. Even telling someone you like their new outfit or sharing a smile makes a difference. To learn more or get involved, visit fittingfutures.org.
Fitting Futures partners with these Lincoln elementary schools:
Arnold • Belmont • Brownell
Campbell • Clinton • Elliott • Everett
Hartley • Huntington • Lakeview
McPhee • Meadow Lane • Norwood Park
Pershing • Prescott • Randolph
Riley • Saratoga • West Lincoln