“Finding everything someone needs” at PRC Clothes Closet

This March, PRC’s Clothes Closet celebrates one year since it reopened in Westmont for in-person shopping under the leadership of the Social Services Team. Management of the Clothes Closet of cially transitioned to Social Services Manager Sam Kopka as PRC began to offer in-person visits in Westmont for the rst time since March 2020.

“The rst few months challenged everyone as word spread slowly about the Clothes Closet’s reopening,” Sam said. “One of the things we did was add a second day for neighbors to visit the clothes closet each week. Securing volunteers and booking appointments for the second shift took time.”

Nevertheless, Sam and the team of Clothes Closet volunteers worked smart and diligently. Activity started to pick up by winter, with more clothing drive donations coming in and neighbors booking more appointments to visit the closet.

Just like PRC’s grocery assistance programs, the Clothes Closet reduces the nancial stress that many neighbors visiting PRC experience. With the majority of their incomes going to rent, utilities and transportation, there is limited room in their budgets for seasonal clothes, especially for their children. Ultimately, Sam is on a mission to make sure PRC’s Clothes Closet has everything that a neighbor might need, from socks and underwear to coats.

“Clothing is a basic need for people,” Sam said. “Clothing is also expensive, even basic items like underwear and socks. If our volunteers and I can provide quality clothing to people that ts their needs, I know we are really doing something helpful for them.”

“We have been able to provide just the right items of clothing, like suits for job interviews, and maternity clothes for expectant mothers. That makes a real difference,” said Vicki Mazur, an eightyear PRC volunteer who also does client intake in our Westmont of ce. “Having appointments for clients to come in and shop has helped keep the clothes closet even more organized.”

Clients agree. The clothes closet experience has improved overall. Appointment times are followed up with a text reminder. So when clients arrive, they can use their time ef ciently.

“To me everything is perfect, said Myrna, a regular visitor to the clothes closet.” The items provided by clothes closet can help families save money, that can be applied to other expenses. “People are really helpful here. That’s what makes it nice. It’s even nicer now than it was before.”

“The quality is much better,” said Len, who has visited the Clothes Closet with his wife monthly since August. “And there is more variety to choose from.”

On average, households leave after a visit to the clothes closet with 20 items of clothing. And approximately 135 neighbors visit each month, making this a key PRC program.

The clothes closet is 100% supported by donations. And donating is easy. Individuals, businesses and community groups can organize clothing drives, as well as donate clothes at PRC’s Westmont of ce only, during speci c hours Mondays through Fridays. Call PRC at 630-682-5402 for current donation information.