Clothing Clients in Dignity at Serenity Kloset
On a sweltering June afternoon, with high levels of humidity and the noon sun beating down from on high, Major Enrique Azuaje stood in front of approximately 20 people delivering remarks. He was wearing his navy polyester Salvation Army uniform. And sweating.
He spoke about the dignity in choosing one’s own clothes rather than being given something “just to get by.” He spoke about choosing that very warm uniform (even though it’s sometimes uncomfortable in the heat and humidity of the summer), and the dignity he felt in selecting it. And he prayed for that dignity and sense of pride for the clients at The Salvation Army’s Evangeline Booth Lodge emergency family shelter. For on that day, the new Serenity Kloset was dedicated and opened to those families facing homelessness.
The Serenity Kloset was the brainchild of leadership at the Booth Lodge: Carol Randolph, director; Lieutenant Sara Ray, spiritual life coordinator; and Martha Washington, special events and volunteer coordinator. The Kloset, a mini boutique hiding in plain sight among the private rooms at the shelter, holds racks of shoes, professional and casual clothing, and accessories for all ages and sizes.
“Before we transformed this room, we would have to dig through bags and bags of stuff and just hand clothes to our families,” said Lieutenant Sara. “But now they can come in and shop for themselves and find things that fit them and show their personality.” Lieutenant Sara also wanted to give a sense of peace in this room, hence the name Serenity Kloset. There’s a sitting/reading area with comfy furniture and lighting, and even a mural painted on the wall.
The team hopes to be able to provide household items for families moving into homes, in addition to clothing. “You don’t necessarily think about it, but people moving out of shelters probably don’t have kitchenware or sheets or items like that,” Carol said. “We’re hoping to be able to put together move-out packages soon.”
Donations are needed to keep a wide selection available. “We’re most in need of professional clothing for men and women, as well as items for families moving out,” Martha said. You can schedule your donation by calling Booth Lodge at 773.275.9383.
See more photos from the dedication