Aaliyah was a 14-year-old ninth grader. More than anything, she wanted a gold-colored winter coat. When the request came in, we weren’t sure we’d be able to fulfill her wish, as gold is not a popular color choice. At NGA, we tend to stock basic colors: red, navy, black, green, pink, purple, and orange.

But we know the importance of feeling empowered by what one wears, and the positive effect that has on a child's mental health, behavior and self-esteem. While we were unsure if we could find the coat, we’d at least try. While we stock many basics at NGA, we do often have to shop on demand for the unique needs of the children and youth we serve.

As luck would have it, we were gathering items from one clothing partner that week and right in front of us was a rack of coats, led by one in all gold. Size large? Check! When we returned to NGA, our volunteers matched a purple hat and glove set with gold details.

Aaliyah got her prized coat, and wore it with great pride and confidence.

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