Hephzibah Children's Association raised $46,486 at its Fall Kids Resale, the highest single-sale total in the Oak Park nonprofit's history.

The organization announced the record in a recap posted Sept. 28 after the weekend sale wrapped. The twice-yearly resale collects donated children's clothing, toys and books, then sells them at low prices to raise money for Hephzibah's programs serving children and families in need.

The sale did more than raise money. Volunteers filled tote bags for 15 children, ages 5 months to 11 years old, who receive Hephzibah services. Each bag was matched to the child's size and interests and included a winter coat, multiple outfits, pajamas, shoes, books and toys. Sponsor Michelle Galindo ensured every bag also included socks, underwear and diapers.

Families receiving Hephzibah services shopped the sale for free. After the event, leftover donations went to 10 community organizations, and eight Hephzibah After-School sites refreshed their toy selections with remaining items.

The resale sent zero fabric or material waste to a landfill, according to the organization, with thousands of pounds of clothing finding new homes instead.

Hephzibah, founded in 1897, is Oak Park's oldest social service agency. It operates Hephzibah Home, which the organization describes as the only Qualified Residential Treatment Program (QRTP) in Illinois designated to care for the most extreme cases of abuse and neglect of children ages 3 to 11. The QRTP provides a safe environment for up to 40 children each year. Hephzibah also runs day care, after-school and summer camp programs serving 810 children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds on a sliding-scale fee system.

The OPRF Boys Basketball Team pitched in after the sale, helping pack up the event space. Little Teeth Big Smiles Children's Dentistry and Sugarcup Trading also sponsored the resale alongside Galindo.

Hephzibah holds the Kids Resale twice a year. The organization said a spring sale is planned but has not announced a date. Residents interested in volunteering can join the Hephzibah Kids Resale Facebook group or contact the organization directly.