Lorraine Capers walked around the rows of tables, stopping only to adjust clothing that had slipped off a table, or to help someone with their bags.

Wednesday, Capers, the Truancy Officer for Selma City Schools, with the help of students and volunteers, held a clothing giveaway at Phoenix School.

“Congressman Artur Davis made it possible through the Oak Mountain Mission, the Truancy Center, and Councilwoman Jannie Ventor,” she said. “They gave me about 200 boxes of items – school uniforms, household items, lawnmowers and toys. Some of the items were new and some of them were used.”

Almost 300 families had already

gotten items by 11 a.m. – 30 minutes after the clothing drive officially began.

“I advertised in the newspaper, through radio stations, church announcements, and word of mouth,” Capers said. “I also gave notices to four or five elementary schools in the city.”

Capers said that the need and demand for events such as this is great in this area.

“Being the truancy officer, a lot of times people come by my office requesting school uniforms and other supplies,” she said.

“I think it’s fabulous,” said Susie Jordan, who was getting clothing for a church member. “A better thing could not have happened in this county. I’m just thankful.”

Although Capers was thankful that Davis and other organizations made the event possible, she was also thankful for the help of those who are often overlooked – the students at the Phoenix School.

“They helped me organize and separate everything and get it out here,” she said. “They also helped set up the tables this morning at 7 a.m. If it were not for them, I could not have done all of this.”

“People think that these kids can’t be of any help, but they’re really good kids looking for guidance,” Capers said.

She said that people feel this way about the students because Phoenix School is the city’s alternative school.

“We pray that before the day is over, every last garment will be gone,” said Councilwoman Jannie Ventor. “We don’t have to go out of our city, there are plenty of people here who need food and clothing.”

“We’re just thankful that Congressman Davis saw fit to let our site be one of the sites to receive these items,” Capers said. “I’m not sure how often (this will happen) but I hope that this will continue to be one of the sites.”