Needham, MA – Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell donated a carload of smart casual clothing and business attire, totaling more than 80 articles of clothing, to Needham Community Council through the “Suits for Success” program.
Many people often reserve a section of their closet for seldom-used clothes. Some may have updated their wardrobe, or they may be working from home and no longer wear the same amount of business attire. These seldom-used clothes can find a new purpose and have a dynamic impact on someone’s life. They can be provided for free to those in need, sold at a lower price for individuals on a budget, or used to raise money for community aid projects.
“We always appreciate donations from our neighbors,” said Mindy Kalish, Development Manager for Needham Community Council. “Clothing donations help support the thrift store, which in turn helps support the food pantry.”
The Needham Community Council, a private non-profit organization, has been serving Needham for over 90 years with their network of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.” The Council Thrift Store helps fund the Needham Community Council’s food pantry and other programs that support the Needham Community.
“The Needham Community Council’s food pantry and their community support programs have given many people a valuable resource to help in times of need, and we are happy to assist Needham Community Council in that effort,” remarked Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “I thank all those who donated to our ‘Suits for Success’ program, and I hope other local residents and businesses will consider making a clothing donation. The program is truly needed, and it’s a great resource for the community.”
The mission of Needham Community Council is to support people in Needham who have under-met health, educational, or social needs, as well as promote volunteerism, community, and a sense of shared responsibility.
“At the thrift store, you can shop, save, and support the Needham community,” said Kalish. “It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Kalish.
Since the Registry started the “Suits for Success” program in February 2009, it has collected and distributed more than 11,800 articles of clothing.
“I am proud that the “Suits for Success” program and its partnership with numerous local community support organizations have been able to provide support for so many,” said Register O’Donnell. “It is rewarding just to help others in our community who are less fortunate.”
The “Suits for Success” program, developed by Register O’Donnell, partners with groups like Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill’s & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Needham community council, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish’s Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville, St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, InnerCity Weightlifting, New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts in Walpole, and The Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity of Boston. The mission of “Suits for Success” is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals and nonprofit organizations who may need appropriate attire for employment interviews.
“During the past decade, we have learned that programs like ‘Suits for Success’ work,” said O’Donnell. “Professional attire is not just clothing, it is a valuable resource and represents an opportunity that can aid individuals on the path to success and ultimately help them achieve self-sufficiency. Also there are individuals that do not have clothing for an event like a wedding or a funeral which is something many of us take for granted.”