Creating a Welcoming Wardrobe

The original Saint Clare’s Clothing Closet at Saint Joseph/Bread of Life Community Parish in Erie was not in the best condition for those who came in seeking free clothing and household items. Operating in an old locker room in the basement of the parish center, it was dimly lit and small with little storage for the volunteers to process donations. The parish turned to the Catholic Foundation for a grant to update the condition of the “closet.”

“Those seeking help should be given our finest efforts and served with dignity, a smile, and an open heart,” Jean Malthaner, Director of Ministries at Saint Joseph Parish, wrote in her grant application. “We wish to renovate and organize a bigger space to transform it into a more welcoming, efficient, and impactful resource for our community. We will clean, paint, build storage, and set up a more organized display area. This upgrade will provide a comfortable and inviting space for the poor and homeless to visit, while picking out clothing for themselves and their families.”

The Catholic Foundation awarded Saint Joseph Parish a grant supporting these upgrades. “The volunteer staff have found the new space to be more welcoming to the public and roomier to accept and organize donations,” Jean shared. “Our goal is always to provide a comfortable and caring distribution area to give away donated clothes, and this goal has been met with this newly renovated space.”

Shortly after renovations were completed, Saint Joseph pastor, Father Steve Schreiber, dedicated the new space at an event where parishioners could come and learn about the ministry.

“Our volunteers show a sense of unmatched commitment to those who come to Saint Clare’s Clothing Closet. They build relationships with them and treat them with care and dignity,” Jean added. “We have learned that we have a mission to serve those who need our help and treat them with a smile and welcoming atmosphere. Saint Clare’s Clothing Closet has become an important part of this mission. The church population comes to experience and share our giving spirit. Hopefully this is serving like Jesus served.”

“On behalf of our parish community, thank you for believing in the mission of Saint Clare’s Clothing Closet,” Jean wrote in thanks. “Your generosity ensures that those who come to us in difficult moments are met with compassion and practical help. Your support is a blessing to our ministry and to every person who walks through our doors.”

This project was supported by a grant from the Catholic Social Ministry Endowment of the Catholic Foundation. Your gift to the Foundation in any amount designated for this endowment increases our capacity to award grants for innovative projects and programs throughout northwest Pennsylvania.