hope for women battling drug addiction in Altoona

BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. — A free clothing drive supported women in drug addiction recovery in Altoona on Monday.

The CC Boutique, organized by Families United for Change, was named in memory of a local woman who died of a drug overdose.

Women who visited the store were able to browse clothing items donated by community members. Organizers said this event also aims to let women struggling with drug addiction know they are valued.

“We want them to feel special for the day; Give them some sodas and cookies and things and nice things that maybe they wouldn’t get anywhere else,” said Marianne Sinisi, founder of Families United for Change. “It’s definitely about lifting them up and making them feel special “.

The event has even attracted the attention of several high school students who joined in to collect items.

“It’s a huge eye-opener, because you see these women, the need and things like that,” said student volunteer Alyssa Hite. “While working on this (event), I’ve learned that when you think your day is going bad, it’s not that bad.”

The group plans to host the store again next year.