Chronic absenteeism rates across the U.S. nearly doubled between 2018 and 2022 and have only slightly decreased since then, affecting about 30% of students nationwide. This growing issue highlights the need for programs that re-engage students and help prevent them from missing school. One such initiative is Whirlpool’s Care Counts™ Laundry Program, now entering its ninth year. In partnership with educators, developmental psychologists, and Teach For America, the program aims to address a simple but significant barrier to attendance—access to clean clothes.
The Whirlpool’s Care Counts™ Laundry Program has expanded in the 2023-2024 school year, now reaching 164 schools across 41 states, including newly added schools in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Alaska, Texas, and Oregon. Since its launch in 2015, the program has provided washers and dryers to schools to help more than 50,000 students gain access to clean clothes. By eliminating the issue of dirty clothing as a reason for missing school, the initiative aims to reduce chronic absenteeism and improve academic outcomes for at-risk students.
Whirlpool’s data from the 2023-2024 school year demonstrates the program’s effectiveness. Nearly 87% of participating high-risk elementary school students saw an improvement in their attendance. On average, these students were present for 13 more days during the school year. Furthermore, nearly 74% of students reduced their level of chronic absenteeism after participating in the program.
In addition to improved attendance, students in Whirlpool’s Care Counts™ program have seen benefits in other areas. Developmental psychologist Richard Rende, Ph.D., who supports the program, notes that consistent attendance often leads to better grades and boosts in self-esteem. This not only helps students academically but also fosters personal and social growth, putting them on a path to long-term success.
“We’re incredibly thankful to Teach for America and the dedicated educators involved in Whirlpool’s Care Counts™ laundry program,” said Magdalena Pawelec, Senior Director of Brand Marketing at Whirlpool Corporation. “Their efforts to reduce absenteeism are making a positive impact on students and their families. By continuing to grow this program, we can provide meaningful support for students facing barriers to education.”
Rende emphasized that the program’s data tells a powerful story: access to clean clothes can significantly lower absenteeism for at-risk students. The Care Counts™ initiative has proven that something as simple as having clean clothes can help children attend school more consistently, leading to improved academic performance and higher self-esteem.
For more information about Whirlpool’s Care Counts™ Laundry Program, visit their official website at www.whirlpool.com/care-counts.
About Whirlpool Brand
Whirlpool has been creating home appliances for over 100 years, focusing on improving family life through innovative solutions. The Care Counts™ Laundry Program is part of Whirlpool’s commitment to promoting educational equality by installing washers and dryers in schools. Whirlpool Corporation is a leading global appliance manufacturer, dedicated to making life at home better for families around the world.
