The fifth annual Love on the Run Clothing Drive will provide Thanksgiving meals, free clothing, hygiene packages and much more to those in need, with a goal of helping to brighten the holiday season for Cleveland’s lower-income families.
The clothing drive aims to serve as a lifeline for Cleveland families who struggle over the holidays. This project, which was started by Tiona Good and co-organized by Jayda Parker, an alum member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.’s Sigma Alpha chapter, is still helping the community by working together.
The drive, which will take place on Dec. 1 at 11504 Forest Ave. in Cleveland, will provide attendees with a hot Thanksgiving lunch, a variety of donated apparel for all ages to choose from and hygiene packs stocked with necessities. Love on the Run has grown over time to make sure families have access to more resources by incorporating toys, canned goods and other non-perishable items.
“This event means so much to me,” Parker said. “It’s truly a way to give back and support the lower-income communities in Cleveland. The holidays can be a hard time, and it’s always nice to find ways to make things easier for people. Seeing smiles on faces, hearing children laugh and watching our volunteers come together makes it all worthwhile.”
Parker credits the event’s success to the hardworking volunteers who have played a crucial role in the expansion of the drive, particularly the Sigma Alpha chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. In addition to collecting clothing at Kent State’s Student Multicultural Center, the chapter put up a donation box and put in effort to find more volunteers.
Essence Holloway, president of Sigma Alpha, emphasized the importance of service and sisterhood in their participation.
“Through collaboration, community and care, Love on the Run continues to make a meaningful difference, bringing joy and resources to families during the holiday season.”
On the day of the event, attendees can visit four stations: a clothes area, a hygiene bag distribution point, a non-perishables section and a buffet with traditional Thanksgiving meals, sweets and beverages. Additionally, volunteers make sure that everyone enjoys the holiday spirit by distributing to-go meals to those who are unable to come in person.
The goal of the drive is supported by donations of clothing, toys and canned goods, even if the volunteer list is full. Parker called on supporters to contact her on Instagram at @jaayy.p_, saying, “Anything you’d like to give helps.”
Not only is Love on the Run a Christmas custom for Cleveland families, but its goal is to remind people of the strength of love, community and service.
Courtney Simpson is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].
