My initiative called ''The Empty Hanger" sends packages of clothing and accessories to families in need on a regular
basis. I began by cleaning out my own closet, and then the closets of my two girls--things we didn't wear anymore. I wanted to do something truly unique that would benefit others.
Because I am also disabled, I know how hard it is for people with financial or physical barriers to get to clothing drives, etc. I feel that my 'niche' is that I am reaching people that otherwise would be shut out.
I inspect the clothes for stains, rips, and broken zippers and buttons. Those things are thrown out. Everything is washed and comes from a non smoking home. I began taking donations via my Verified PayPal account to cover shipping charges, and I started getting offers for donations.
I have helped a single mom and her two girls in Pennsylvania, a single mom and her three boys in Michigan, and a single mom locally. I am currently looking for more people to help.
On top of the package contents I place an empty hanger with a notecard attached that reads:
"Here's an empty hanger from my home to you.
Every time you use it, remember that this is true
The kindness of a stranger has touched you on this day
Be thankful what little you have in each and every way
As you use this hanger, consider yourself so blessed
And hang upon it your favorite outfit or perhaps a special dress
Then every time you see it, you'l remember all the year through.
That this hanger is no longer empty
Instead it is holding something special entirely meant just for you!"
I will be filing as a non-profit in 2008, as I really want to turn this into an organized operation. I currently receive donations through the mail and locally that consist of clothing, purses, accessories, jewelry, and bath and body items. 100% of the financial donations received pay for shipping costs. I am hoping too, to find more ways to get funding.
For the month of December I have received $40 in donations. That will allow me to send 3-4 packages in January. $1 or $2 here and there does add up over time.
I estimate that $100 can allow me to send 8 12x12 packages
COMING SOON
Official Website
YouTube Video about 'The Empty Hanger' (currently working on) (more)
Comments
that is a great and kind thing you are doing
Hi everyone!
I have now posted the '2nd try' for this wish.
[ link ]
Thanks so much for the support, and please spread the word. $100 can make a HUGE difference!
Good Luck to Ya!!!
Happy New Year!
*C*
What a wonderful thing to do! I hope your wish is granted, best of luck to you!
Thanks again to all for the kind remarks. I will definitely keep trying.
5 Stars and even if you don't make it this week, please keep trying to wish. For some it can take several months. For example Lissa's top wish, she has been wishing for 4 months now or more. Your nonprofit sounds like a wonderful organization.
You are trying to help others with this wish. You have my 5. Good luck & God bless you!
what a wonderful thing!
excellent wish.. 5 from me to you and good luck.
Hello again, and thanks for the overwhelming support. You can read more extensive information about what I do at:
[ link ]
Edited on: Dec 29, 2007 10:22 am
5 stars coming your way again today..*S*
I am honored to know you here at the begining of your journey. Good Luck!
You sound like a person who truly cares and wants to make a difference. Good luck and God Bless you.
5*
I voted 5 for your..*S*
Have a good day...*S*
Good luck....*S*
~Namaste~
Pommawolf
This is awesome , i just went through a whole lot of clothing that my kids aren't wearing ,sending them out tomorrow to the used store. I love what you are doing ,please keep me updated as to how you are doing with this .Hugs,freshwater
You should check out my group on myspace. We are a christian based group that helps moms in need. I would love to have you aboard! [ link ]
I've added a few things to my media gallery. I hope you'll all visit!
your very welcome:) I know lifes a struggle my life with my kids and their dad was always a struggle and somehow made it thorugh poveryt ... sick child my daughter born with spina bifida i was young and homelsee with two sweet babys .,. I asked god please show me the way everyone turned their backs on me becasue they never liked my husband.. but I struggled through I am alone now kids grown and a man who loves me and it hurts him too this is a struggle wouldnt be so bad if I could work but my heart is so bad .. that it would not be possible ... anywasy I wish to everyone is that life doesnt stress you and makes your lvies with your lvoed ones happy every year .. hugz tc
I wish you all the best...*S* You have a great and giving heart.
I'll see if I can some contacts to reach out to assist you in filling those Empty Hangers"....*S*
Your vision of helping others is lifting people up...instead of tearing them down.
And to me..that means you have an open heart....and you have no judgement of others.....so you help me keep my faith in the human spirit in your open heart to others.... *S*
~Namaste~
Pommawolf
Thanks to everyone for the votes and comments...please spread the word! $100 can help me help so many others!
This is a wonderful idea and a great wish!!! Good luck in your endevour!!!!
5 Stars!!!
Awesome wish my friend, hope so much that you get it :)
God bless and good luck!
way to go, people helping people. you got my vote!!!
Good luck, you get my 5 :)
Great concept. Best of luck.
Great Idea! Got my 5! Good luck
This is a really interesting idea. Good luck!
wow this is a wonderful cause..!!
This is a great thing you are doing. I just sent someone some clothes my child out grew and even though I do not have much myself I thought what you did. I could have donated them or took them to a consignment shop but I wanted to help someone also. Granted the person helped with shipping. Good luck with this wish I will be voting for it.
This is such a wonderful idea. I really hope you get the help you need here. Its great seeing someone taking this initiative to help others. What a great person you are.
Thanks. I raised it to $25. Still a bit wet behind the ears on this site. :-)
What a creative use for clothing, assorted items and used hangers!
You are a marvelous example to your children of resourcefulness and generosity!
Thank you for sharing your project with us, this is clearly worth a 5* rating. However, I don't usually give a 5 to $1 wishes. Would you consider raising your request to cover the shipping cost for one or more packages. Even $10 would meet with my approval, and would still leave room for others to win as well in the same week.
Good luck. I will come back to vote.
Sounds like a great idea. Good luck and welcome to the group!