Pioneer Emporium

Oct 24 2024Sue Scott

Mintonye opens the Pioneer Emporium

Jeans, hoodies and shoes are among the items students can find in the newly-opened Pioneer Emporium at Mintonye Elementary School. The closet is designed to support families who are in need of some extra clothing items, school supplies or hygiene products.

“I see firsthand how many of our students are in need of basic items,” says Student Services Coordinator Tara Striegel. “With the completion of our school’s new addition, we were able to create the Pioneer Emporium to better serve our families.” This area of the school also houses the school's Food Finders Backpack program, which helps provide weekend meals for students in need.

The school, along with donations from families, has helped stock the closet, but more items are needed to keep it well-supplied and responsive to student needs. “We currently have a need for winter coats, new underwear and socks of all sizes,” Striegel says. 

Donations of gently used clothing items can be dropped off at the Mintonye office. Undergarments will be accepted only if they are new and still have tags. Families interested in visiting the closet can contact Striegel at tlstriegel@tsc.k12.in.us or call the school to schedule a time to shop.