Heidi Kraak
Those doing it tough across the Latrobe Valley can access free clothing with a new community-based initiative in Traralgon.
A group of volunteers formed Tabitha’s Closet, a service that provides clothing free of charge to those in need, in April this year after hearing about a similar program in Cranbourne.
Tabitha’s Closet coordinator Meagan Bennetts said the group was not sure if there was a need for such a service in the region when they first started.
“Since we’ve opened, we’ve seen there really is a need,” she said.
“There are people in the community that might be struggling a bit and we’re here to help them get through that season because we all go through tough times.
“When people realise it is free they are sometimes quite shocked because op shops are good but they can be quite expensive for some people.”
Ms Bennetts said all the clothes had been donated and the group had a wide range of items on offer, with everything from children’s clothes to adult-sized clothing and shoes, including plus sizes.
“Everyone has different needs so we try to cater for all the different sizes,” she said.
“Particularly with kid’s clothing, someone may just need that one thing.”
Ms Bennetts said volunteers had named the program ‘Tabitha’s Closet’ after a woman in the Bible who had sewn clothing for those in need.
“This is a place where people can come, get what they need, relax and have a cuppa,” she said.
“We’re here to help”.
Tabitha’s Closet is located at Traralgon City Church, 107 Maffra Road, Traralgon and is open on Fridays from 10am until noon.
For more information visit traralgoncitychurch.com or email contact@trarlagoncitychurch.com.
