News  Norfolk Juvenile Probation employee organizes clothing drive for local shelters impacted by a decrease in donations due to the pandemic

Pictured above: Norfolk Juvenile Case Specialist Scharliea DaRoza

Ms. DaRoza decided that she wanted to help and launched Operation Clothes Drop, a clothing drive at the Dedham and Quincy Juvenile courts and Dedham District Probation Department. More than 400 items were collected. The clothing, shoes, and toiletries were donated to Woods Mullen and the Southampton Street shelters in Boston. The drive was held November 13th to 30th. Coats, sweaters, jogging pants, shoes, sneakers, undergarments, and toiletries such as deodorant, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and hairbrushes were among the items collected and donated. 

“I thought to myself that the month of November is about being thankful and giving back. Why not come together and do an Operation Clothing Drop to help those in need,” she said.

Ms. DaRoza credits her colleagues for coming together to help give back to those in need. She also thanks Chief Probation Officer Mark Prisco, First Justice Joseph Johnston, and Clerk Magistrate Robert Ryan who all supported her efforts.

“A big shout-out to everyone who donated for the Operation Clothes Drop. I just wanted to say that you all rock! The staff at the shelters were very grateful for all your donations. Like I always say, we can do so much together than we can ever do apart," she said.

"We at the court are so proud of Schar and the initiative she took to help so many folks in need during this crisis. She is truly our champion," said Chief Prisco. 

Ms. DaRoza said she will organize the drive again next year.