Rotary learns about Kristin's Kloset

The Rotary Club of Weirton Heights recently learned about Kristin's Kloset, a local organization dedicated to supplying needy children with clothes.

Joan Andrews, mother of Kristin Andrews who lost her battle to cancer almost three years ago, along with Modesta Stewart, a coordinator for Kristin's Kloset, spoke to the Rotary Club of Weirton Heights.

Andrews gave the background information on her daughter's battle with a rare form of cancer. She said in dealing with what was going on after her daughter lost her battle with cancer, she knew she did not want to let society tell her how to deal with the situation. She said she let God guide her through.

Andrews said Kristin was a kind and caring person who would go out of her way for others. She said during her stay at the hospital, Kristin would order a large amount of food and have her family members deliver it to the homeless and needy outside the hospital.

"That's just the kind of person she was," said Andrews.

Andrews continued telling Rotarians how she went through Kristin's closet and decided to give her clothes to children in need. She said now they accept clothes and monetary donations to provide for children in hospitals, group homes and those in surrounding communities.

Modesta Stewart, coordinator for Kristin's Kloset, stated Kristin taught everyone what life is all about. She said each year they hold a back-to-school drive to collect new school clothes for children who have little. She said in December, they take pajamas up to the children in the hospitals as well.

"It's not just for Weirton, it's for kids all over because it's not the kids' fault they have to go without and a kid in need is just that," said Stewart.

Andrews said taking a bad situation and turning it into something good has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. She said Kristin's Kloset supports children from newborn to college age. She said it is their goal to deliver three van loads of clothes for the winter season.

(Dickson can be contacted at adickson@weirtondailytimes.com)