This week, it was brought to my attention that there was an online discussion about the fact that we charge for clothing.
Wow! People are noticing us.
Of course, the more people notice the more I want to be publicly transparent about our operating procedures.
We offer food, books, Bibles, and assorted random items for free. (Random things could include paper products, toiletries, school supplies, small toys, and most recently Christian CDs and DVDs and lots of educational "My Plate" plates.)
We charge for clothing. Usually.
Our clothing closet, called The Dollar Shop, is a small area in one corner of our pantry that most highly exemplifies the "us" concept, and the spirit of empowerment and individual development that we strive for.
Anyone can donate. Anyone can shop. This includes church attenders, those receiving help from the food pantry, and unchurched community members looking for a place to plug in.
When someone receiving help from the pantry is seeking a tangible way to give back, this is a simple and direct path for them to do so. They bring in things the kids have outgrown or that they no longer wear, and know those donations can turn into extra funding to support our programs.
When someone shops, they can get a great bargain and know their dollars matter.
We regularly have folks find suits, dresses, coats, shoes, and every day wear for $1 an item. Those who shop are proud of their purchases.
I'm pretty proud of the $1 Nikes I picked up. One of the dear ladies who uses our pantry tried them on first, we compared sizes, and when they didn't fit her, she had me try them on. I have funky to fit feet, so we were both delighted (and surprised) that they fit me. I really needed some new shoes and was waiting until I had the extra funds, so we talked about how God provided. It wasn't just the bargain and the much needed shoes, but that little piece of community in the transaction that made me so happy.
On the other hand, this is still a charitable clothing closet when it needs to be. We want people to be warm in the winter. We want their kids to have clothes for school. We want them to have clothes for work. If there is an emergency need, we give away what we have, and often solicit additional donations in needed sizes.
For example, we are currently collecting polo shirts, khakis, and black pants to benefit students at an area alternative high school. We have helped families after fires. We have helped get kids clothes for back to school. We have provided for a senior who lost her clothing in an eviction.
We also give things that have been hanging around in The Dollar Shop too long. The ladies who run this part of our ministry are getting ready to switch out clothes for the season, and all of the summer stuff will be given away for free. (It's still warm in Virginia, so the free short sleeve shirts will still get wear for awhile.)
We don't make a fortune out of this. I would think a good month brings us $30 in profits. It does not financially sustain us. That's not the point.
The Dollar Shop makes people happy. The thrill of the hunt for a bargain is great. The satisfaction in giving and working together is what we're all about.
