Most parents face an unexpected downturn in their finances -- usually at the most inopportune time -- at some point in their parenting 'careers'. This usually requires us to look outside our normal circle of family and friends for the extra support because we all know there is that fine line between accepting help and feeling like a mooch!

Although there are  programs out there to help those in financial distress, many parents are excluded because they are otherwise stable -- be it employed, happily married, living in their own home etc. -- and therefore disqualified from financial help when the unexpected happens or they just need a tiny bit of help.

Given todays economy and the all too frequent lay-off notices being sent out, wage freezes and plant/store closures this is going to happen more and more -- especially those that are already living paycheck to paycheck. After the rent/mortgage, heat, hydro, food and other essential bills are looked after there never seems enough left for children's clothes -- especially when the immediately grow out of whatever you just bought them.

Gravenhurst Early Years program addressed this very issue in the way of a FREE clothing exchange. Moms with children of every age and stage brought in their unused or outgrown children's clothing and added it to the collection of things that other moms had brought in. Any mom now could get what they needed for their own children from off the table for free irregardless without any limiting restrictions. I was able to outfit my child with winter wear, sleepwear and regular clothes and even found some nice bedding and curtains. Everybody's situation varied but if the word was put out that someone was in need all kinds of things found their way onto the table that would be of use to them.  I myself will be eternally grateful to that program and to the generosity of the other Moms.

It was a program that I feel very passionate about and was very sad to hear that it could no longer be run at the Gravenhurst Early Years program.  As a champion for this cause, I endeavored to find a way to keep the program running as I don't ever want any other mom to feel as helpless as I did or as close to a complete meltdown over a winter coat as I was. Nor do I want any parent to ever be turned away because they are married or employed or have a mortgage. Given todays economy -- Gravenhurst and its parents needs an all inclusive program like this.

I have found a way to integrate this clothing exchange program into Growing with Giggles. A few changes had to be made to allow for a smooth integration and a happy balance between a free clothing exchange and the expectations of the consignees on the retail side of the business -- of which I rely on to keep the bills paid.  I am also always open to new ideas on how to make the program even better.

I have kept the basic concept the same -- all items are donated -- for the 'Green Tag' program. I have opened up the donations to include more than just clothing though and am able to accept all forms of infant, toddler and children's items including: toys, games, books, bikes, bedding, winter and outerwear, buggies and strollers and many other children's items that are no longer needed.

I have taken the original clothing exchange program and incorporated what I think are some of the best parts and practices associated with places and programs like the Salvation Army, Goodwill and Value Village.

Once items have been donated they will be 'green tagged' and may be used in any of the following ways: