Even in Spring, school uniform items are among the most frequently requested items by families visiting the Free Store. School clothes aren’t just needed in August. Some public schools follow a year-round calendar. Sometimes children grow in December. And, inevitably, that last pair of khakis sprouts a hole on the 15th of May. You can help.
Because of you, things are looking up for Patricia and her family. “I know it will get better,” she says. “Knowing you can reach out and get the help you need, it’s just a beautiful thing. That’s all I can say. You changed my life today. Thank you.”
Chuck Barger is a long time friend of Crisis Assistance Ministry and the families served here. When it came time to retire from his daily role at Common Market, he found a new way to use his retail skills, stocking Crisis Assistance Ministry’s Free Store with donated items for individuals and families who shop here free-of-charge.
If you could change one thing to make the world a better place what would you do?
Eleven-year-old Webb would “try to house all of the homeless people”. Just a middle schooler, he is already aware of Charlotte’s problems with housing instability and homelessness.
Angel and Tony earned trips to sleepaway camp through the Bruce Irons Camp Fund. But with their mom already struggling to make ends meet, the long supply list was a bit daunting. Fortunately, they were able to shop at the Free Store for flashlights, swimsuits, pajamas, towels, water shoes, toiletries, summer clothes, and more.
This team from Piedmont Natural Gas is among thousands who give their time to inspect, prepare, hang and shelve donated goods to ensure more than 80 families each day find essentials. Because shoppers are able to find shoes, clothing, and household goods free-of-charge, they are able to redirect their limited resources to other priorities like food and shelter.
Ruby Laws began volunteering a little over a year ago helping to prepare donated goods for families who shop here free-of-charge. She comes in faithfully every Tuesday and Thursday with her companion. Ruby comes in each day with an enthusiastic, determined spirit, eager to learn and excel at all tasks within this area of the agency.
Jackie Little learned about agency volunteer opportunities while donating her late husband’s clothing. She began volunteering in the Free Store over a year ago, consistently offering her support every Tuesday afternoon. Free Store customers adore Ms. Jackie for her hard work and upbeat attitude.
