Westheimer Boutique to be site of benefit

 Children's resale shop to raise funds for nonprofit organization

Memorial and Spring Branch-area parents can clean out their childrens' closets and help a good cause, thanks to a Houston Outreach Task Inc benefit to be held Saturday at Children's Orchard.

The nonprofit organization, which is headquartered at 922 Fisher , provides clothing, food, health programs and other services to the homeless population.

"We're hoping to get mountains and mountains of clothes to fill their need," said Lori Vorwerk, owner of the children's resale shop at 12572 Westheimer Road at Dairy Ashford.

Vorwerk said area residents are asked to bring "gently used, freshly-washed" children's clothing they want to donate or sell.

"The clothes can be for any season," Vorwerk said.

Those who want to donate the items will be provided a tax receipt.

Vorwerk will offer to pay cash for clothing items she thinks she can sell in her store.

For every 10 items she purchases Saturday, a $1 voucher will be given to Houston Outreach Task.

The vouchers may redeemed for items at Children's Orchard, she said.

The event also include free balloons for children, novelty gifts, a children's photo contest, drawings and goodie bags.

"The need for children's clothing is overwhelming," said Carol Ceaser, Houston Outreach Task Inc.'s executive director.

"What the Children's Orchard is doing is a major blessing. We have clients who have nothing."

"It's hard to believe that in Houston there is such poverty.

"The children suffer the most."

The organization serves more than 7,000 homeless children each year, Ceaser said.

Vorwerk said this is the first year for the store to host the benefit.

"If it is a success, we hope to make it a regular event," Vorwerk said.