The PAWS Clawset, a care program that provides BOHS students with free essential items including clothing, toiletries, and school supplies will open for use March 4.
An extension of the PAWS Wellspace and run by the BOHS counseling department, the PAWS Clawset, located at the north end of the library, is a room where students may discreetly acquire free items on Wednesdays during snack or lunch, or by request from a counselor or BOHS social worker Brianna Coque.
“Many of our students face challenges outside of school that can make it difficult to focus, and fully engage in their education,” Coque said. “By meeting these basic needs with dignity and care, we hope to ensure that every student feels supported, valued, and ready to succeed.”
The closet initiative received a start-up donation of $2500 from the Brea Rotary Club.
Rotary Club treasurer and BOUSD Board President Carrie Flanders said of the endeavor: “The purpose of establishing a care closet was to create a dedicated space where students can access essential items and support.”
Local businesses, BOUSD families, and community members also contributed by donating clothes (such as graphic tees, dresses, and jeans), shoes, soaps, and other hygiene supplies.
BOHS National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) club, which collaborates with the counseling department on student mental health initiatives, will provide volunteers to assist in the facilitation of the closet during snack and lunch.
BOHS NAMI president Angela Sohn (‘26) believes that the closet is a solution for students in need of immediate support to resolve hygiene issues on campus and boost mental wellness.
“You should be able to take care of yourself and have all the basic necessities that you need for hygiene because if you don’t, it’s hard to maintain a positive mindset,” Sohn said.
Students who are interested in volunteering, donating items, or arranging a visit to the PAWS Clawset may reach out to Coque, whose office is adjacent to the space, either in person or through email ([email protected]). Flyers providing additional information about basic need support resources such as food pantries, shelters, and counseling can also be found at the PAWS Clawset.
“The initiative reflects a broader effort to address student basic-needs insecurity and create a more supportive campus culture,” Coque said. “[We’re] supporting student well-being, fostering a more inclusive campus environment, and reinforcing the message that students are cared for beyond the classroom.”
