#United States #New York #Clean Rite Center #Darnell Cares #NYC Students

Clean Rite Center and Darnell Cares

In an inspiring initiative set to make waves in New York City, Clean Rite Center, a leading laundromat superstore, is deepening its partnership with Darnell Cares. This collaboration marks the second phase of a multi-part effort aimed at providing essential hygiene resources and laundry services to the students of NYC.

Objectives of the Partnership

Starting in January, Darnell Cares plans to implement hygiene pantries in public schools across all five boroughs. These pantries will be equipped with toiletries, free laundry cards, and laundry detergent pods, giving students the resources they need for proper self-care. Clean Rite Center complements these efforts by offering free laundry services, ensuring that students have access to clean clothes whenever they need them.

The initiative's first rollout will take place in the Bronx, with a focus on schools where a significant portion of the student body—around 70%—lives below the poverty line. Another school in Queens will also be included, where over half the students face economic hardships. As the program expands throughout 2026, more schools across the city will benefit from hygiene pantry installations.

The Importance of Hygiene and Attendance

Darnell Liburd, the founder of Darnell Cares, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "When students feel cared for, they show up differently—in the classroom and in life. That's the impact we're proud to champion." The need for clean clothing and basic hygiene resources can be a barrier for many students, often leading to chronic absenteeism. The program seeks to alleviate these challenges, especially post-COVID-19, where one in three public school students in NYC was reported as chronically absent last year.

According to Felicia Galitsky, Head of Partnerships at Clean Rite Center, “Providing laundry cards and detergent pods to kids in need allows them to take care of their laundry at a time and place that works for them. That simple convenience offers something far greater—dignity, confidence, and the feeling of being supported by their community.” This initiative is about more than just laundry; it’s about reinstating dignity and confidence among students who are often overlooked.

A Legacy of Community Support

Clean Rite Center has long been recognized for its commitment to the community and has collaborated with over 300 NYC public schools since 2022. Through these partnerships, they have provided substantial support to students in temporary housing, donating more than $500,000 in laundry services. This expanded partnership with Darnell Cares continues the mission to enhance students' dignity, access, and opportunities for a brighter future.

As the initiative unfolds, both Clean Rite Center and Darnell Cares are proud to play a role in advocating for the well-being of NYC's youth. Their collaboration represents a beacon of hope and a practical solution to fighting the barriers that prevent students from achieving success due to lack of essential hygiene and laundry resources. By investing in the younger generation, they are fostering a healthier, more inclusive educational environment for all.