At Yorba Linda High School, Mustangs take pride in helping one another, and the Mustang Locker is one example of that spirit in action. It is open to all students for free, provides gently used clothing, including T-shirts in various colors and styles, dresses, sweaters, scarves, pajamas, bags, hats, shorts, jeans, shoes, jackets, and business attire for both men and women. 

The Mustang Locker is located in room 509, with an entrance outside to the right of the Forum Theater gate. It is managed by Mrs. Fritz and Ms. Petz, along with student volunteers. According to Mrs. Fritz (S), the purpose of the Mustang Locker is “to provide all students with what they need to be successful in school.” 

Research shows that when students have access to basic essentials, says Mrs. Fritz, “they are more likely to come to school and have a greater opportunity to thrive.” The Locker is welcoming students every Monday and Wednesday from 3:20 to 4 p.m. 

Some students may assume the Mustang Locker is only meant for those facing financial hardship, but Mrs. Fritz emphasized that its mission is much broader. She explained that the focus should be on the purpose of the Locker, not the people who use it.

“The Mustang Locker is not only for students facing long-term financial hardship…it is meant to support any YLHS student who may need temporary or occasional support,” explains Mrs. Fritz. 

This can include students dealing with family challenges, those who forgot or lost essential items, or anyone who needs access to basics like clothing or hygiene products to feel comfortable at school.

The Mustang Locker is more than just a closet of clothes; it is a “no questions asked” space where students can enjoy a small shopping experience. Mrs. Fritz shared that students can “walk in and browse freely, request items through a Google Form, or even make an appointment to shop privately.” She added that “many donations come from YLHS staff and students, which helps broaden the impact…This allows Mustangs to give support as well as receive it.” 

According to Kaylie Lam (12), who frequently visits the Mustang Locker, the experience feels both comfortable and exciting. She said, “I started using the Mustang Locker after my theatre teacher told me about it, and I thought the concept was amazing. It reminds me of a thrift store, which I love, and I like going every so often to look for cardigans or tops. There are always so many things to look through, and I’ve found some really cute pieces over the years.”

One of Locker’s most unique aspects is its emphasis on donating and reusing clothing. Mrs. Fritz explained that all donated items are brought to the Locker, where they are sorted, cleaned, and organized by staff and volunteers. Students, families, and staff can also donate funds to help keep the space stocked, fostering schoolwide involvement and care.

Kaylie added that the Mustang Locker is especially meaningful because “clothing can be really expensive nowa

days, and instead of spending money on one shirt, I can use that money for food or school supplies.” 

To improve the shopping experience, Kaylie shared a few tips she uses when picking out clothes without a dressing room. “If they’re bottoms, put your forearm in the waistband or wrap it around your neck to see if it fits your waist,” she explained. “For tops, I hold them against my body. If it covers the front without stretching, it should fit nicely.”

Mrs. Fritz also shared several moments that highlight the Mustang Locker’s importance. She recalled times when students needed to change clothes during the school day and were able to do so without missing class. Other students, she said, were able to “replace broken backpacks immediately.” She also noted that students “in the Brand Creation class use the Locker to upcycle thrifted clothing, giving items new life while reducing industry waste.”

Looking ahead, organizers hope to continue expanding awareness of the Mustang Locker so more students feel comfortable using it and sharing its benefits with others.