ORCUTT, CA — What started with a few forgotten sweaters at school has grown into a heartfelt mission of giving for nearly 12-year-old Janeth Ruiz, a sixth-grade graduate from Joe Nightingale Elementary in Orcutt.
With the help of her mother, Teresa, Janeth is donating gently used clothing to the Pediatric Closet at Marian Regional Medical Center — a vital resource for local families in need. Her most recent donation? Over 150 items, including warm sweaters and jackets collected from her school’s lost and found.
“The best part is knowing that these clothes are going to people in need — to people who can’t afford them or get them easily,” Janeth said.
From Lost & Found to Hope & Help
Janeth first noticed the abundance of unclaimed clothes at her elementary school in kindergarten, and quickly took action.
She partnered with her mom to collect, clean, and donate items that otherwise would have been tossed aside. That small act of kindness has since grown into years of consistent contributions, directly supporting children through the Marian Pediatric Closet, which provides free clothing and essentials to local families.
“We’re so proud that Janeth continues to think of others and find ways to help her community,” her mother, Teresa, said.
A Young Leader in Service
Beyond her philanthropic work, Janeth is also an active member of her community:
- She dances with Ballet Folklórico Corazón de la Costa
- Participates in Girl Scouts
- And has recently begun acting
Community leaders are taking notice.
“It’s not just the donations themselves, but Janeth’s thoughtfulness and dedication that truly impress me,” said Patty Herrera, director of community health for Dignity Health on the Central Coast.
“Her heart for service is an inspiration to all of us at Marian.”
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What Is the Pediatric Closet?
Founded in 2016 by Marian Regional Medical Center in partnership with the Children’s Resource Network of the Central Coast, the Pediatric Closet provides clothing and essential items to children and families in crisis.
It is dedicated in memory of Janet Davila, a beloved registered nurse who believed in caring for the whole child — not just their medical needs.
Want to Help?
If you’d like to donate new or gently used children’s clothing to the Pediatric Closet, you can:
- Contact Marian Regional Medical Center’s Community Health office
- Visit the Children’s Resource Network of the Central Coast website
- Or drop off donations at participating hospitals and school
Let’s celebrate the next generation of givers like Janeth Ruiz — and join her in making a difference, one garment at a time.
What Do You Think?
Have you or someone you know ever found a creative way to give back to the community—just like Janeth?
We’d love to hear your thoughts, stories, or words of encouragement for this inspiring young girl. Drop a comment below and join the conversation at ridgecrestpact.org.
