MENASHA (NBC 26) — When we think of basic needs, food, water and shelter typically come to mind first.
“Clothing is often kind of forgotten as a basic need," said Lisa Jones, Executive Director at the Community Clothes Closet. "But it is a basic need, we all need clothing to function out in society, with our jobs at school, and first impressions are a big deal.”
The Community Clothes Closet has been providing free clothing to people in need for the past 42 years out of their Menasha store. Now thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Basic Needs Giving Partnership, supported by the U.S. Venture Fund for Basic Needs within the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, the J.J. Keller Foundation and other community partners, the 'Traveling Closet' has been created.
“Kids can easily find what they need, parents too," said Lisa Jones. "And it's convenient, it's taking it on the road and making it easier for people to access.”
The Traveling Closet will come to the Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh every month during the school year. Clothing, bedding, winter gear and personal care items are completely free of charge to kids in need who have no way of getting to the Closet’s Menasha store.
“A lot of our clients they have one pair of shoes," said Jones. "We just helped a couple of students this week, that all they have is a pair of sandals.”
With winter approaching, the closet is looking for snow pants, snow boots and coats ahead of their big snow gear distribution in November.
“How you present yourself when you first walk into any job, or when you're with your peers, it makes a big difference," said Jones. "And also it's a safety thing, especially in Wisconsin with the winter weather, clothing plays a very vital role in keeping you healthy and safe from those winter elements.”
You can drop off donations Monday through Friday at the Menasha store, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and also Monday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m.
“You're making a difference," said Jones. "Passing down your clothing, gently used, it's helping divert from the landfill, but it's also making a difference in the life of someone who isn't able to go out and purchase their clothing on their own.”
