Today was my volunteer day at the New Image, a boutique for women who for reasons need clothing. Last week when I volunteered, we were expecting a group of farm workers.
I was a little disappointed because 6 volunteers showed up and only two clients. I didn't feel useful with so many helpers, so I left early. Today ,there were two " dressers" plus me, for one client. This time, I got to see the whole experience, with the client
being so happy and her leaving with two shopping bags full of clothes for her to start a new life , here in PT. The job I signed on for is called "sorter " . I get to go through bags of donated clothing.
We take clothes that don't require special handling. Our emphasis is on functionality, ease of care, quality and modern. The clothes that are" fancy", have to be dry cleaned or are "power suit" , we send to a consignment shop in PT. Some hardy type clothes,we
put on a rack for people using the food bank. The food bank meets just down the hall from our doorway, so anyone who needs a jacket or sweater, or work pants, just takes it off the rack that is out side of our door. There is
another category.. things that are worn, but still serviceable, go in a bin that another group picks up for the people that they service. I have to make judgement calls on some of the clothes. I can't wait for the sale opened to the public. Volunteers get
a presale advantage. I have my eye on a few things.