Northview High School in Covina opened a student-run resource center offering free clothing, hygiene products, school supplies and laundry access to students in need, school officials announced Friday.
The Viking Closet, housed in the school’s wellness center, was founded by senior Julianne Fernandez and co-founded by senior Nabhat JinJin Sanglimsuwan.
The center includes Northview Threads, which provides new or gently used clothing, socks and shoes, and Northview Essentials, which offers hygiene products and school supplies. A washer and dryer also are available for students to use.
“It can be hard for students to focus on learning if their basic needs aren’t met,” Sanglimsuwan said in a statement. “Our hope is that, through The Viking Closet, we can take some of that weight off our fellow students’ shoulders.”
The closet is staffed by student volunteers and staff supervisors, including student-athletes, Associated Student Body members and members of the Interact and Self Care clubs.
All items are provided anonymously and at no cost, according to the school. Students can visit during open hours or be referred by a staff member.
The center operates on a pay-it-forward system, accepting donations from students who are able to contribute, along with fundraising proceeds from school clubs and donations from community partners.
Fernandez initially proposed the project while serving as a student board member during the 2025-26 school year. The school received funding through the California Community Schools Partnership Program.
The Viking Closet had a soft opening in October and held its grand opening Nov. 3.
“I firmly believe that every student deserves access to basic necessities without feeling ashamed, uncomfortable, or afraid to ask for help,” Fernandez said.