Sunrise Teen Earns Girl Scout Gold Award for Launching Free School Uniform Program

by Sharon Aron Baron December 6, 2025

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Gracie Canedy being recognized by the City of Sunrise Commission. {City of Sunrise}

The City of Sunrise has recognized local teen Gracie Canedy for creating a new program that provides free school uniforms to students in need, a community initiative that earned her the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award.

Canedy, a longtime Girl Scout who now participates independently as a Juliette, designed the Compassion Closet to ease the financial strain many families face in meeting school dress code requirements. Drawing from her own family’s experience of thrifting to stretch their budget, she set out to ensure that no child goes without the basic clothing needed to attend school.

“Many families in our community are unfortunately unprepared for the expense of uniforms, especially the number of outfits that are required to alternate during a five-day school week,” Canedy said. “Everyone deserves access to the basic necessities that allow them to attend school.”

Uniform essentials such as solid polos and khaki pants often cost more than casual clothing, creating challenges for families with multiple children or those whose students outgrow attire each year. After identifying this need, Canedy partnered with administrators and the Parent Teacher Student Association at Horizon Elementary in Sunrise to launch the first Compassion Closet. The closet allows students to “shop the rack” at no cost, with Canedy personally collecting, cleaning, sorting, and organizing donations.

At a recent commission meeting, Sunrise leaders honored Canedy with a Certificate of Achievement for her service and innovation.

“Those of us who spend a lot of time in schools recognize the financial challenges many families face when it comes to uniforms. Gracie saw the world around her and decided she could make it better,” Sunrise Mayor Michael J. Ryan said. “Her empathy, leadership, and determination are exceptional, and her Compassion Closet will have a very real impact on students for years to come.”

In its early months, the program has already distributed 16 uniform donations, with dozens more prepared for families. Two fully stocked clothing racks—holding roughly 80 items—are available, and Canedy continues refining the system by tracking demand by size and grade. She has also created an online feedback form, where families have expressed overwhelming gratitude.

Residents and organizations interested in donating uniforms or recommending future Compassion Closet locations may call 754-265-6678.

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Sharon Aron Baron: Editor of Sunrise Talk and Talk Media. Talk Media was created in 2011 to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Northwest Broward County.