First Threads exists because no child should walk into school feeling embarrassed, invisible, or less than because of what they're wearing.

Clothing insecurity is more common than most people realize, and its effects run far deeper than a worn-out outfit. Around 20 million children in the United States are currently experiencing it. The consequences show up in the classroom and beyond. A survey of over 100 caseworkers found that 88% reported emotional impacts on students, 72% reported social impacts, and 58% reported academic impacts.

We founded First Threads because we believed something could be done differently. With a shared passion for the fashion industry and a deep commitment to giving back to young people, we built an organization that brings both together. Our mission is to provide personalized clothing experiences to girls in grades 4 through 12 facing clothing insecurity, and to do it in a way that honors who each girl is, not just what she needs.

Every girl we support is asked about her personal style, people she looks up to in terms of style, and the pieces she has always wanted. We take the time to learn who she is, because every clothing bundle we put together should reflect her individuality. That personalization is everything. It is the difference between receiving a handout and being seen.

100% of every donation goes directly toward the girls we serve and to further the organization. There is no fixed budget per child, because this is not about spending a set amount. It is about creating something meaningful and lasting. We prioritize quality over quantity, because we want every girl to remember the moment she felt fully like herself.

The more we raise, the more girls we can reach. But no matter how many we serve, the experience will always be personal, because that is the whole point.

Charlotte Green & Maddie Lemanski