At Second Chances, we specialize in clothing, shoes and accessories, and have the resources to collect, sort and store apparel, and then provide local service agencies with the specific clothing and supplies that their clients need. So many of us have overflowing closets - clothes that no longer fit, accessories that we never use, shoes that would look great on someone else - and we hope that someone else can put these things to good use.

Local organizations that serve homeless and lower income infants, youth and adults need clothing, shoes and accessories for their clients; however, they often lack the storage space, staffing and resources to be able to facilitate these donations. This is exacerbated when there is a mismatch between what is donated and when it is donated and what is needed: spring and summer clothing donated in the fall and winter; clothing for children and women when clothing for men is in short supply; sizes 6 and 40 when sizes 14 and 32 would fit; and prom dresses and t-shirts when work clothing is needed.

At Second Chances, we provide local homelessness, emergency assistance and anti-poverty organizations with the clothing their clients need, when they need it. By staying small and focused, we can effectively and efficiently serve hundreds of people in need each year in Cambridge and Somerville through their current service and housing providers.

From one of our community partners:
"I cannot tell you how much you have helped the women I have worked with over the last couple of years, and how important what you do is for their self-esteem. Many of my clients have begun their transformation with your clothing. It is impressive to watch. You have a gift." Client Advocate & Stabilization Support Coordinator, Transition House

From a client of one of our community partners:
"Dear Second Chances,
You do not know me but I wanted to thank you for the beautiful clothes I received through Second Chances! I was so excited about the clothing and when I looked through everything, I was absolutely amazed at all the wonderful things. I couldn't have done a better job picking things out myself! Everything I asked for and more was included and I am so thrilled to have such a wonderful wardrobe! I wish there were better words than thank you!" Beth C.

Clothing donated to Second Chances benefits members of our own community. Here is how:

• Local businesses and other property owners provide space for our clothing donation bins on their properties. Community members deposit their gently used or new clothing, shoes and accessories in the donation bins. Local businesses, residents, congregations, civic organizations, and others coordinate clothing drives and accept clothing donations from their customers, members, and employees.
• Second Chances sorts, organizes and stores clothing, shoes and accessories. Some of this clothing goes directly to local organizations for their clients and some is sold so that Second Chances can purchase other supplies, like new socks and underwear, and support the on-going operation of our community programs.
• Participating local organizations working with homeless and other low-income people in Cambridge and Somerville request specific types and sizes of clothing, shoes and accessories from Second Chances.
• Second Chances delivers clothing to the organizations, and works with their staff to ensure that the infants, youth and adults they serve have the clothing they need.