Charles River Apparel, Sharon, Massachusetts, recently donated more than $28,000 worth of apparel to long-time charity partner Circle of Hope, a nonprofit providing clothing and essentials to communities experiencing homelessness in the Boston area.
These items will be distributed to local shelters and affiliated programs so that families and individuals can have access to warm, season-appropriate clothing this winter. This cause is especially important to Charles River Apparel, which frequently works with organizations focused on combating clothing insecurity in underserved communities.
“For more than a decade, Charles River Apparel has helped Circle of Hope protect the health and dignity of our most vulnerable neighbors,” says Barbara Waterhouse, executive director of Circle of Hope. “Their donations of new clothing and outerwear have changed the lives of thousands of people, from college students experiencing homelessness to older adults in shelter.”
Since 2010, Charles River Apparel has partnered with Circle of Hope in many forms, from being a several-time sponsor of the organization’s spring fundraiser, HOPE Blooms, to hosting an employee volunteer event. Each year, Charles River Apparel makes an in-kind donation—sometimes multiple—to support Circle of Hope’s mission.
“We know that clothing is about so much more than just something to wear—it has a direct impact on mental and physical well-being, whether it’s feeling confident or staying warm through winter,” says Deb Lipsett, co-owner of Charles River Apparel. “Circle of Hope recognizes the struggle of clothing insecurity and approaches the problem with a level of compassion and care that we admire, and that we are proud to be a part of.”
This most recent donation consisted of 25 boxes that included 875 pieces of apparel. The clothing was distributed throughout the Boston area to programs such as Boston Health Care for the Homeless, Framingham State University Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence, and several overnight shelters.
“I am so proud of our partnership with Charles River Apparel and grateful for their support,” says Jody Barnet, operations manager at Circle of Hope. “When I send Charles River Apparel donations to our partner shelters and healthcare clinics, I know I’m sending warm, high-quality clothing that will last. Together, Charles River Apparel and Circle of Hope are helping so many people stay healthy, warm, and safe all year long.”
For more information, visit www.charlesriverapparel.com.
