A thrift store will help boost confidence among Glen Cove youths

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To empower middle-school girls and foster a sense of community, a Glen Cove-based nonprofit called I Am My Sister has announced the launch of a thrift store in Finley Middle School. The initiative is about more than just clothing — it’s a sisterhood that supports young girls in need and helps them build confidence.
Founded on the principles of health and wellness, positive self-image, leadership, advocacy and career exploration, I Am My Sister has championed the empowerment of girls and women since 2010. With this latest project, the organization is taking its mission a step further by addressing a critical yet often overlooked issue: access to clothing that maintains dignity and builds self-esteem.
The idea for the thrift store came during the group’s holiday efforts.
“We adopted families as part of a Secret Santa initiative,” Lela Watson, founder and president of I Am My Sister, said. “Parents were asked to list three things their children needed, and we were heartbroken to see essentials like bras and socks on the list.”
The realization that some students lacked necessities inspired Watson to think about how to address their needs without reinforcing low-income stigmas.

The thrift store, dubbed My Big Sister’s Closet, gives middle-school girls the opportunity to “shop” for new or gently used clothing and accessories twice a month. Students use “I’m Bucks,” a currency they earn through good behavior, volunteering and academic achievement. Each girl is given $10 in I’m Bucks per month, with opportunities to earn more.
“We wanted to make this a fun and empowering experience,” Watson explained. “The girls can shop with their friends during lunch or after school, building confidence and bonds along the way. It’s not about getting a handout — it’s about creating memories, laughter and a sense of community.”
The response from the community has been overwhelming. A clothing drive last Saturday drew an outpouring of support, with donations from local businesses, families and volunteers. Drop-off locations at Level Up Glen Cove, Berkshire Hathaway and How Can I Help Elder Care made it easy for residents to contribute. The collected items included everything from casual T-shirts and hoodies to accessories like scarves, bags and jewelry.
Nicole Robinson-Helmus, a project volunteer, described the experience as transformative. “We’ve been collecting clothing for three weeks now, and the support has been amazing,” she said. “The idea of helping kids feel confident and pretty through something as simple as a thrift store is incredibly rewarding.”
For eighth-grader Joana Merlos, a member of I Am My Sister, the store represents what the organization is all about. “It feels like you’re giving back to the community,” Joana said. “It’s not just about the clothes. I like to help.”
The thrift store is also a practical solution to a pressing issue. Anaiss Ramsaran, a psychologist at Finley Middle School and the club advisor at the middle school, emphasized its importance.
“Many of our students don’t have access to clean, appropriate or new clothing,” Ramsaran noted. “Middle school is a time when image is important, and this store provides a safe, fun and empowering way for students to get what they need without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. The goal is to empower the girls to come in and get whatever they might need without feeling embarrassed about it, and make it a fun activity.”
This thrift store is just the beginning. Watson said she envisions expanding the program to Glen Cove High School next year, and eventually bringing it to other communities. “We’ve had inquiries from schools in Hempstead and other areas with similar needs,” she said. ‘The goal is to create a model that can be replicated to help as many young people as possible.”
For Watson the initiative was an unexpected success.
“What started as a simple idea during Christmas has grown into something truly magical,” she said. “The community’s support has been incredible, and it reminds us of the power of unity and kindness.”