SHORT HILLS, NJ – Aarav Sonthalia, a rising senior at The Pingry School, is a member of Millburn Inspire , an organization that was founded during COVID to help first responders. The group now collects food for a homeless family shelter in Newark called Catholic Charities Family Shelter. The shelter has over 100 members, and Milburn Inspire delivers food there almost weekly.

The clothing drive is being run from July 8 to 26, and items can be left at 272 Hartshorn Drive in Short Hills. Donors can set up a pick-up appointment or leave gently used summer clothes outside the garage. To arrange a pick-up, call (201) 637-0529 or (201) 856-8951.

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Sonthalia explained what inspired him to collect clothes. “As temperatures soared during the heat wave, it became clear that wearing the proper clothing was needed to endure the heat.” He noticed that he had clothes in his own closet that he could donate, and that motivated him to ask others if they had clothes to spare.

Sonthalia added, “Many individuals and families that Millburn Inspire and I have been providing food for lack access to light, breathable clothing that is needed in this kind of weather.” He will personally be dropping off the donations at the Shelter.

He reported that this is the first time he’s run a clothing collection, but he’s started to prepare for the next. “I have already collected some clothing for the next fall/winter season.”

Sonthalia urged residents to glance in their closets to see if there’s anything they don’t wear or want. “By donating our gently used clothes, we can make a significant impact in someone else's life. What may be excess to us can be a precious necessity to others,” he stated.

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He’s eager to bring the clothing to the shelter. “I hope to provide relief and comfort to those who need it most,” shared Sonthalia.

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