SHAWANO, WI – Community Clothes Closet is expanding its mobile outreach into the Shawano area, bringing free clothing and essential items directly to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.
The Traveling Closet program is supported this year by $3,000 in funding from the Shawano Area United Way and is designed to help remove barriers such as transportation challenges, rising living costs and limited access to affordable clothing. The program had already been operating in Clintonville but had not previously made a stop in Shawano.
Through the program, Community Clothes Closet staff and volunteers set up mobile clothing distributions featuring gently used and new clothing for children, adults and older adults. Items include everyday clothing, work attire, seasonal outerwear and other essentials for children and families.
The organization says providing those items at no cost can help residents prepare for work, keep children ready for school and stay safe during Wisconsin’s changing seasons.
The Traveling Closet works with local community organizations and social service agencies in Shawano to reach households with the greatest need. During its first Shawano visit earlier this year, the program served 80 individuals and distributed more than 1,200 pieces of clothing to local families.
Community Clothes Closet says the goal is not only to help families stretch limited budgets, but also to support dignity, employment readiness and school attendance.
The mobile program is part of a broader network of services offered by Community Clothes Closet across Northeastern Wisconsin. The organization also operates a shopping floor at its Menasha facility, a New Start Boutique for job seekers, back-to-school programs, winter clothing distributions, PajamaRama, Baby Kits and emergency clothing kits for children entering foster care or other crisis situations.
Community Clothes Closet has provided free clothing to people experiencing financial hardship since 1980. What began as a small church-led effort has grown into a regional organization serving thousands of people each year.
The organization now partners with more than 90 social service agencies and relies on volunteers, donors and community supporters to provide clothing in an environment where people can select items that fit their needs and personal style.
Community partners say the Traveling Closet model has already made an impact in nearby communities. Compassionate Connections Center Executive Director Leah Wojnowiak said the program has brought essential clothing to families in Clintonville on a regular basis.
Community Clothes Closet will also hold a community open house Oct. 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at its Menasha facility. The event will include tours, opportunities to meet staff and volunteers and light refreshments, while giving the public a closer look at how donated clothing is turned into resources for families in need.
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