The typical American throws away nearly 68 pounds of used clothing and rags every year.

Collectively, Americans discard two quadrillion pounds (that’s a two with 15 zeroes) of used clothing and textiles into the landfills each year.

Considering those statistics, also consider that 24 percent of the children in Alabama live below the poverty level.

In an effort to help those in need, the youth of Clanton First United Methodist Church are partnering with Son Light Ministries in Jemison to collect unwanted clothes, stuffed animals, shoes and purses for those in need.

“Items you would normally throw away — those that are stained, torn, etc. — they bundle these clothes and sell them to help support the homeless mission in Jemison,” said Lynn Best of Clanton FUMC. “Son Light Ministries has a Thrift Store in Jemison, so they collect good clothes too.”

Members of the youth group went to the Son Light thrift store located in old town Jemison and volunteered their time and efforts.

Clothes can also be taken directly to the center, which is located at 106 Main St. in Jemison.

In addition to the thrift store, the ministry also operates a food bank and a women’s shelter.

For more information about the clothing drive, call 755-0490.