In December, my family and I volunteered at Our Closet, sorting clothing that people had donated (Mitzvah #5).  Every week, Our Closet takes those sorted piles of clothing and sets up a pop-up clothing store that simulates a true shopping experience with tables, hanging racks, mirrors and a check out counter. The store is volunteer-run. There is no eligibility and customers are entitled to select up to 5 items free of charge. The store currently operates in partnership with community-based organizations throughout Philadelphia.

This pop-up shop was located at Casa Caribe, 173 W. Allegheny Ave, Philadelphia.  They had about 100 clients come through to shop, including mothers with babies and young children, mentally ill patients with their caseworkers, men of all ages and women who were picking up a few items to wear to work.  Besides setting up and breaking down the store, our job was to help the clients find their sizes, put together outfits that make them feel special and ooh and aah when they find the perfect piece.  I especially enjoyed helping this adorable 4 year old find a perfect Halloween costume, and a 2 year old choose a cute pair of boots!