Tri-Valley Central School District was proud to serve as the first stop on the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Foundation Leadership Sullivan Class of 2026 Comfort Closet Ribbon Cutting Tour.
At Tri-Valley, our Comfort Closet is fittingly known as the Bear Clawset, a resource that has been serving our Bears by providing access to personal care and hygiene essentials in a private and supportive setting. The recent ribbon cutting provided an opportunity to officially recognize the Clawset and celebrate additional support provided through the Leadership Sullivan Class of 2026.
The Comfort Closet initiative was selected as the class’s community project after members researched challenges affecting students throughout Sullivan County. Their research found that limited access to personal hygiene products can contribute to school absenteeism, as some students may stay home because of embarrassment or fear of being bullied.
To help address this barrier, the class worked with schools throughout the county to establish new Comfort Closets or strengthen existing ones. At Tri-Valley, that meant helping support and stock the Clawset, ensuring essential items continue to be available to students who need them.
The Clawset provides students with access to items such as deodorant, shampoo, soap, brushes, combs, feminine hygiene products and other everyday necessities at no cost and with dignity.
Through fundraising efforts, community partnerships and grant funding, the Leadership Sullivan Class of 2026 secured supplies and resources for participating schools throughout Sullivan County.
Members of the class celebrated their work with a ribbon-cutting tour that began at Tri-Valley Secondary School before continuing to other participating schools and organizations across the county.
Tri-Valley is grateful to the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Foundation Leadership Sullivan Class of 2026, along with the community partners and donors who supported this initiative. Their efforts are helping ensure students have access to essential resources while removing barriers that can impact their school experience.
