What started as a cooperative effort with counselors at the Rochester primary and elementary schools to provide emergency clothing has grown to a full-blown mission project!
In 2005 the Clothing Bank (as it was then known) operated from members’ garages and basements. In addition to providing emergency clothing to schools, special projects – such as a backpack drive and a winter coat drive – were conducted in support of the ROOF (Rochester Organization of Families) Center.

In 2011 the Community Closet served
an average of 358 individuals from
111 families each month
|
In 2008 a “call-in” clothing bank was started at the church to determine if there was a need for an organized clothing bank. There was, and is.
In the spring of 2009 the Community Clothing Closet opened in a single-wide manufactured home located on church grounds. In the fall of that year a new 'back-to-school' outfit program was implemented, providing at least one complete outfit - including shoes - for those who would have otherwise started the school year without a special back-to-school outfit.

The "Community Closet" has grown
to a full-blown mission project |
As the need for clothing assistance grew, so did the Clothing Closet. In August of 2010 we added a double-wide manufactured home to the site, providing much-needed additional space to better serve the community. During the past year 4,307 individuals from 1,332 families (including repeat visits) were served. Thanks in a large part to a donation from TransAlta, we were able to provide approximately 230 students with a new pair of pants and a top, underwear, shoes and socks, plus 10 backpacks to the ROOF Center prior to the start of the 2011-2012 school year. During the school year new clothes are available for children with designated need and/or as recommended by school counselors.

Donations to the "Community Closet"
are tax deductible |
While the primary focus is on children’s clothing, adult clothing is also needed, as well as blankets, sheets, towels and other items. By serving the whole family, the hope is that each family will have a chance for better health and a better life. If you would like to contribute to the clothing bank (donations are tax deductible), would like to lend a hand, or find yourself in need of this service, please call the church office at 273-5000.