Even though they were just installed a few months ago, the textile donation boxes at each of the Wareham schools have already raised more than $400 for the schools, and have the potential to raise $400 more through a contest.

PTA Corresponding Secretary Tricia Brogioli said the boxes have raised exactly $406.25, since their installation in May this year, from Bay State Textiles, a textile recycling company based in Pembroke. For every one ton of clothing collected monthly, the schools receive $100. According to Bay State Textiles, Wareham’s August collection was 1,685 pounds of clothing.

Brogioli said the contest, which runs from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, involves the schools donating a combined total of 16,000 pounds of material. She said Bay State Textiles will then award the schools an additional $400 on top of the $100 monthly rebate.

“[The money] goes right back into the schools,” Brogioli said. “We use it for field trips, and … I know [Middle School Principal] Dan Minkle is looking for two new color printers.”

Brogioli said almost every material is acceptable, except foam. The only requirements are that it be clean and dry. Everything from old pocketbooks to shoes to sheets are fair game.

“It’s back-to-school time,” Brogioli said. “Clean out your closets! If people would like to get rid of some stuff, we would love to have them donate it. That money goes back into the schools.”

To donate, take any unwanted items to one of the four donation boxes at each of the schools. Wareham Middle School’s box is located around the back of the school, and Wareham High School’s box is located towards the front. Minot’s is near the student dropoff point, and Decas’ is to the side of the school.