Cap and gowns needed for high school graduation! Do you have a cap and gown from graduation in the back of your closet or in a box somewhere? After hearing through clients that students are not attending graduation because they cannot afford to purchase or rent a cap and gown, Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association (“ECAHMAA”) is working to establish a Cap and Gown Recycling Program. It is obvious that graduation, especially from high school, is a pivotal event in students’ lives. Recycling caps and gowns from area high schools is one great way for all students to have the ability to participate and experience this celebratory occasion.  

“Many of us kept our cap and gown for sentimental reasons, but what better way to honor our items than to pay-them-forward?” – Sarah Klenz, Program Developer

ECAHMAA will accept caps and gowns from all Eau Claire public high schools, Chippewa Falls High School, Menomonie High School and the University of Eau Claire – Wisconsin gowns.

ECAHMAA is also seeking monetary donations. Funds will be used for renting gowns, purchasing tassels or other necessary graduation attire and dress cleaning.   ECAHMAA believes the Cap and Gown Recycling Program fits under the agency’s mission because every person, despite their financial situation, should be given opportunities and support to achieve their full potential. The vision of the agency is to create a socially, educationally, and economically just society for all communities in the Chippewa Valley to enjoy for current and future generations.  

Who Qualifies for a Cap and Gown?

We are asking that high school students be eligible for free or reduced lunch and that college or higher education students have financial stressors or other hardship(s). If you have questions, please call:
(715) 832-8420

How to Donate

Bring your cap and gown to Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 p.m or please send donations to the following address: ECAHMAA 423 Wisconsin Street Eau Claire, WI 54703

You can also donate online: https://www.ecahmaa.org/support      

For more information contact: Cara Yang or Sarah Klenz Email: carayang@ecahmaa.org or sarahklenz@ecahmaa.org Phone: (715) 832-8420