For many women who face a financial struggle day after day, getting a job interview is just a small part of the battle. Most of us can merely take a few steps to our closets and pull out something presentable for an interview, or at worst purchase a new outfit at a mall or discount store.
But what if making a new purchase of any kind was out of the question?This is the reality that many women are now facing.It is only recently that a few organizations have stepped up and provided much needed support to these women.
One Chicago based organization started in 1991, called Bottomless Closet, was the first to offer job ready clothing along with other work force development services to women in need.According to their website, most of their clients are single heads of households who are forced to choose between buying food for their children and purchasing clothing for a job interview.Any mother would know how simple yet incredible frustrating that choice must be to make.
For women who do not live in Chicago, Bottomless Closet became a founding member of a national organization of independent community-based “sister organizations” called The Women’s Alliance.TWA provides career skills training as well as professional attire to women in need all over the country.
According to TWA’s website, they help more than 50,000 women and families with their services each year. Though their focus is on women, they also have programs that provide clothing for men, teens, and children.The reality of the situation becomes clear after reading this phrase from their website urging people to donate, “Someone’s Future Is Hanging in Your Closet”.
What a great way to feel guilt-free about getting rid of the work clothes that you no longer fit into! It's a win-win opportunity!
Libby_Lynn::
on Sep 18, 2008
All I can say is that this is truly beautiful in so many aspects:
1. It provides an opportunity for people to give, which will
touch so many.
2. It helps give the recipient's self-esteem a much-needed boost at a very difficult time.
3. It allows a golden opportunity for many women to make a brand new start--not only in their lives, but also with a dynamic first impression!
survive50::
on Sep 18, 2008
Love the idea and hope it speads. I recently had a problem with clothes to wear to work. I had cancer and because of my treatment most of my old work clothers no longer fit. Money was very tight and there was very little budget to get clothes to wear on my returning to work. It would be great to have some kind of contact in order to offer clothes at cost!! We are very middle class and if it was hard for us with a two person income I can just imagine how hard for a single woman or someone just starting out.
agranote::
on Sep 20, 2008
This is a great concept and one I truly support. As a social worker, this is a great way to make a huge change in society. Providing necessary tools to help disadvantaged people get a fresh start.
diamonddiva::
on Sep 21, 2008
I have heard of it and actually had an oppurtunity to receive a business suite from one of the organizations. Dress for success. But I will say this being a plus sized woman there is a big need for plus sized clothing. I had once befor given alot of plus size clothing to a different affiliation for the dress for success when I was working and had a closet full of clothes I never would have thought that I would be getting help from them. Once I get back on my feet I will give any clothes that I have or even purchase extra clothes to give to the Dress for Success.
jamici::
on Sep 21, 2008
It's funny that I stumbled upon this blog because I just filled my car with over 70 items from blouses to suits to winter dress coats. I finally cleaned out my closet and know that I will never wear these items again. The clothes are in good shape but just don't fit my personality or the job that I'm starting in 2 weeks. I figure that someone else can make good use of them that needs them more than my closet. I'm taking everything in to our local charity that is similiar to Dress for Success. I feel very thankful for all that I've been able to achieve in these clothes and maybe some good sparks will rub off on the new recipients!!!!!!!
keefaschick::
on Sep 23, 2008
This is wonderful! I wish there was one located near me, so i could donate
lizbharath::
on Oct 01, 2008
This is a great idea, and I wish there was a place like this near me!
prettyleeann::
on May 30, 2009
this is great alot of women need help an its wonderful that there is something like this
