The Caring Closet supports area families in need

The Caring Closet and sister store, en’joi, a boutique located at 879 W. Main St. in Smithville, is a donation-based resale shop that is, indeed, all about caring.

“The Caring Closet is a nonprofit organization that partners with other local agencies to provide clothing and essential items to support individuals and families facing crisis situations,” said Maralee Martin, executive director and founder. “TCC raises funds for this purpose at our thrift boutique, which is open to the public. Our mission is to meet practical needs while ensuring every person who walks through our door or has a need filled feels seen, valued and cared for.”

The boutique works on a suggested donation model and offers a variety of items including men’s and women’s clothing for all occasions in a full range of sizes. They also carry accessories such as purses, shoes and jewelry.

“Each item is marked with a suggested donation amount, allowing shoppers to contribute accordingly," Martin said. “This model is part of a larger process that reflects our mission. First, we directly serve individuals and families in need by providing essential clothing and items. Second, we host porch sales throughout the year, offering items at low cost to further support the community.

"Finally, our boutique allows both those we serve and the general public to shop high-quality items at affordable, flexible price points. We encourage shoppers to honor the suggested donation amounts, as this helps sustain our mission and respects the generosity of those who donate items.”

The Caring Closet was started in 2020 by Martin, who felt a calling to serve individuals in her community, particularly women and children coming out of domestic violence situations. With the help of donations and volunteers, she began by assisting a small number of families, providing clothing and essential items.

As the need grew, so did the organization. Additional space was provided, partnerships were formed with local organizations such as OneEighty and other community groups, and the mission quickly expanded.

“Today,” she said, “The Caring Closet has grown into a vital community resource, now operating out of our Smithville location and serving a wide range of individuals and families in need.”

Currently, the nonprofit partners with approximately 20 area organizations, supporting a range of needs from children in school to individuals and families experiencing crisis situations such as domestic violence.

One of Caring Closet’s key partners is the Christian Children’s Home of Ohio.

“At our Smithville location, we have a dedicated space where children can come and select their own clothing, helping restore a sense of dignity and choice,” Martin said.

In addition to clothing, they also work to fulfill special requests as needs arise. Recently, they helped coordinate the donation of a trampoline for one of the cottages through community support.

While Caring Closet works primarily through its partner organizations, it makes exceptions in extreme emergencies. For urgent situations such as emergency foster care placements or those affected by house fires, it provides immediate assistance with clothing and essentials.

Currently, the nonprofit operates out of two locations, the Smithville main location and a processing center in Wooster. Martin said they hope to ultimately combine these at their main location for greater efficiency.

The nonprofit is always in need of volunteers and donations, both monetary and clothing and other items for resale. It accepts new or gently used clothing for all ages and sizes. It also accepts accessories such as purses, belts, shoes and jewelry if they are in excellent condition. Donations may be dropped off at the Smithville location during business hours. All items should be clean and ready for immediate use.

“We ask that all items be freshly laundered and free from stains, damage, smoke or pet hair,” Martin said. “At this time we do not accept household goods, furniture, toys, used undergarments or out-of-season items unless specifically requested.”

Volunteer opportunities are available at both the processing center and boutique location. Tasks needed include sorting donations, assisting with events, organizing inventory, yard work and helping with deliveries.

“We offer flexible scheduling, whether someone can volunteer regularly or just occasionally,” Martin said. “Those interested can sign up through our website or visit us in person.”

Monetary donations are always welcome. Donated funds are used for day-to-day operating expenses, fulfilling special requests, and purchasing essential items such as shoes and other necessities. Donations may be made in person, online or by supporting The Caring Closet events.

Any organizations interested in partnering or volunteering that align with The Caring Closet’s mission and serve individuals in need may call 330-439-5800, email office@caringclosetwooster.org or fill out a form on its website.

The boutique has several upcoming events for shoppers. From April 23-25, it will host a porch sale, with items available for $1 each. En’joi will feature in-store discounts and specials. Customers also can look for them at the Wayne County Home and Garden Show.

“Additionally,” Martin said, “we encourage everyone to mark their calendars for our annual destination event on Nov. 12.”

Find The Caring Closet online at www.caringclosetwooster.org, on Instagram at @caringclosetwooster, and on Facebook at The Caring Closet and Boutique. The retail location hours are closed Mondays, Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.