“Support the Girls” Measures Up
Just outside the popular clothing store Lane Bryant, stood a nervous Marie Gembe. Marie was there to receive a new bra using a $25 gift card, purchased by Bell Socialization Services from the “Support the Girls” campaign. “Support the Girls” allows women who receive services from Bell, to pay for a new bra using gift cards purchased through donations to the campaign.
Like many women, Marie was apprehensive about trying on a new bra, especially since it was her first time getting measured and fitted for one. But, after a few words of encouragement from Brittany Munchel, Marie was ready to head into the store to get started. As an individual service worker in Bell’s S.E.L.F. program (Support and Empower Living Fundamentals), Brittany assists Marie who is a service user. The S.E.L.F. program assists individuals with intellectual disabilities in improving basic living skills and working toward independence and self sufficiency.
“Once the whole thing started, it wasn’t so bad,” said a smiling Marie.
With the help of Caitlin Garrett, an employee at Lane Bryant, Marie was able to get measured and fitted for the appropriate bra size. After trying on a few different bra types, Marie was ready to make a decision. She picked the blue cotton no-wire bra that cost $26. Noticing that it might not be the exact color Marie wanted though, Caitlin was able to offer her more selections. After listening to what colors Caitlin had to offer, Marie’s eyes lit up and a big smile formed on her face.
As Marie stood at the checkout, she glowed when she finally received her brand new baby pink bra, which happens to be her favorite color by the way.
When asked how she felt about the experience, Marie, once again with a big smile on her face happily said, “It was a new experience, and there’s nothing wrong with new experiences. And I liked trying on the different bras. I liked that I was able to get fitted so I could get the right size.”
With the combined help of Bell Services and the people at Lane Bryant, Marie was able to purchase a brand new bra for only one dollar.
If you or your organization would like to donate to the “Support the Girls” campaign, visit our website at www.bellsocialization.com and refer to the drop down menu “Donate Now”.
Story and Photos by Bell intern, Melissa Smith
3/2/11