Behind the Smile: Vol. 4 — Help and Hope at the YWCA

In this journey of transparency, I think it's important to be a voice for not only women, but for the children who have had to endure domestic violence as well. In order to do that, I follow the YWCA and I try to help in any area I can.

That being said, there are 67 children from the YWCA who start school in August and they really could use your help getting ready. Remember when you would wind summer down with school clothes shopping and being excited to wear your new duds? Well -- not to be a Debbie Downer -- but these children don't get that opportunity. I would, however, love it if my community made the start to their school year a little better by donating needed items to the YWCA.

They are in need of girls and boys (any size) clothing, shoes, socks, underwear, shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and beanies.

The YWCA also needs school supplies -- backpacks, paper, notebooks index cards, pencils, pens, highlighters, binders and rulers.

You can make donations to the YWCA at 818 W. Yakima Ave., Yakima, WA 98902