Christian Helping Hands Clothes Closet back open

After being closed for 2.5 months, the Christian Helping Hands Clothes Closet re-opened with an all new look on July 31.

Staff and volunteers spent hours working on improvements on the building that houses the clothes closet on Oak Main.

Not only were things rearranged, but there were some additions as well.

“We’ve reorganized everything and put in additional room,” said Summer Ennis, Clothes Closet director. “We have an intake room for our staff to pray for specific needs. We wanted to have a place where we could take people for a private conversation about prayer needs where they weren’t out in the open.”

It is more than just clothes. They also help with some financial assistance like gas money for doctor’s appointments.

Another upgrade has been seating added in a hallway to the clothes room. There is now seating for clients inside instead of having them to wait outside in the elements.

“We wanted to try to make them more comfortable where they’re not standing out in the heat, rain or cold waiting to come in,” Ennis said. 

With only eight clients allowed in at a time to shop, it was important that those waiting had a place to stay.

The improvements also include access for wheelchairs and walkers.

“Our clients needed to have their needs met,” Ennis said. “This allows them to do their own shopping and not have to rely on family members to get things for them. These improvements will help us meet the needs in our community.”

There are no qualifications to meet in order to use the clothes closet. Anyone can use it. The expansion has also allowed them to increase the number of items that can be chosen. They also have some household items.

“So far, everyone is really enjoying it,” Ennis said. “They are telling us when they are checking out how much they appreciate all the work that has gone into it.”

The Christian Helping Hands Clothes Closet is open every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are not open on fifth Thursdays. Clients can come shop once a month.