All decked out like a clothing store in a mall, the new Trojan Outfitters, has officially opened its doors to MMS students.  But you can’t buy anything.  It’s not for sale – everything is free, and it is the Eagle Scout Project of Monroe High School sophomore Grant Prater. 

Grant, his family and friends, spent time over the last eight months, cleaning out the room, acquiring clothing racks donated by the former Dress Barn store which left Monroe, acquiring and inventorying clothing and making sure everything was ready to open recently. 

“My family and friends helped and gave many hours to make this happen,” Grant said at the ribbon cutting.  Hundreds of pieces of clothing for boys and girls – nearly all of it name brands that kids go to department stores to get – are displayed throughout the store, which is located in the northeast portion of MMS in room that had been used only sparingly over the years.

Grant and his work crew even built a changing room and have acquired toiletries and personal hygiene items, too.  Grant is one of two scouts from Troop 579 sponsored by the Monroe Rod & Gun Club who are pursuing Eagle Scout awards, said Troop Leader Tony Carter.  At the recent ribbon-cutting for Trojan Outfitters, every one of the MMS faculty were there to thank and show their appreciation to Grant. 

“This is such a wonderful project for a fine, outstanding young man, to come and give back to his former school,” said MMS Principal Mrs. Cindy Flynn.  Mrs. Flynn said the clothing would be made available to students when they had a need, allowing them to have the experience of shopping for their needed items, while boosting their self-esteem.