Joanne Simmons knows how many parents and grandparents depend on the Kids Closet Sale for affordable children’s items.

“I got involved about 10 years ago by helping my sister,” said Simmons, who works as a customer service representative in the Times News circulation department.

“She had grandchildren so as they outgrew their clothing and outgrew their toys, it (the sale) was a great way to get rid of used toys and used clothing.”

Simmons’ sister then began volunteering at the sale and so did she.

Since then, Simmons has been getting more and more involved with the sale.

“Now I have my own (consignor’s) number,” she said. “I think it’s great for the community because the items sold are always in good condition. When you go here, you know you are getting good quality items.”

Simmons is just one of the many consignors who make the semiannual event, which is celebrating its 10th year in April, a must stop shop for families in need of quality clothing, maternity items, toys and more at reasonable prices.

The Kids Closet Sale at Penn’s Peak, hosted by the Times News and Lehigh Valley Press, will take place April 16-18.

Jennifer Rowden, director of marketing at the Times News, said that there is still time for people who want to consign.

The deadline to become a consignor, as well as enter items to be sold, is noon on April 14.

Consignors can sell all things children, from toys to clothing from newborn to size large juniors, and everything in between; as well as household decor items and even maternity clothing.

Items that are not sold during the sale can then either be taken back by the consignor on the pickup day or donated to one of the various nonprofit organizations the Times News is partnering with.

Rowden said some items, such as blankets and stuffed animals, can be donated to the Carbon County Animal Shelter, while other donated items will go to a local church to help the community.

Hangers for those finding themselves running a little short are also available by calling Rowden or Jennifer Benninger, advertising director, at 610-377-2051, ext. 3150 or 3113. Donations of extra hangers are also being accepted at the Times News office, located at 594 Blakeslee Blvd. Drive West, Lehighton.

Worker opportunities during the sale are also still available. To sign up to work a shift, visit www.thekidsclosetsale.com.

“We have fun with it,” Simmons said of working the event. “Everyone up there is wonderful.”

For more information on the sale, visit the sale website or call Rowden or Benninger.

“Don’t be overwhelmed,” Benninger said. “If you have any questions about signing up, working the system or anything else, we’re more than happy to talk to you about it.”

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