Meeting Students’ Most Basic Needs

September 9, 2025

Something as simple as shampoo or a clean pair of socks can make a profound difference in a student’s ability to focus and succeed in the classroom. That’s the inspiration behind the Care Closet initiative in Springfield, Illinois’ District 186. With support from the Horace Mann Educators Foundation, Care Closets are now available in 33 schools, offering hygiene items, clothing, food, and school supplies, which are carefully chosen based on family input and community needs. To date, more than 1,500 students—over 10% of the district’s population—have benefited from the program.

“Our care closet was a great help to our students and families. Many of our students do not have hair care or personal hygiene items at home, and they are embarrassed to come to school because of how they look or smell,” said an educator from McClernand Elementary. “Providing them with these items gave them a sense of confidence and security that not only helps them personally but academically as well.”

The sense of dignity and belonging these closets foster extends beyond the classroom. A staff member at Lee Elementary shared, “Our Care Closet gives students the confidence to be present and feel a sense of belonging at school.”

At Grant Middle School, one teacher shared that a student was embarrassed to go to class because her hair was a mess. She thanked the teacher for giving her hair gel and accessories to make her feel pretty. In another instance, a parent called the school to explain her child couldn’t attend due to a lack of clean clothes. When the teacher offered to send detergent home, the parent responded with gratitude, saying she didn’t realized the school could offer that kind of support.

At Horace Mann, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn without barriers. By supporting programs like Care Closets, the Horace Mann Educators Foundation helps schools create safe, supportive environments where students can focus on learning, growing, and thriving.