With high energy bills, the price of groceries and gas, a lot of women on St. Croix run short on money for decent clothing for work. The Women’s Coalition put on a Dress for Success private affair Saturday for their clients, at the Walsh Metal Works Gallery in Peter’s Rest.
The women went home with two outfits, one pair of shoes, a purse, and accessories such as earrings and necklaces, all free. There were gently worn designer dresses and items with price tags still on them.
“They can’t afford to buy clothes,” Andrea Petersen, coalition court advocate crisis counselor, said. “Right now they can only buy groceries and pay LEAC.” Graduates and students of Project Link, adults who have been given a second chance at getting a high school diploma, were also invited.
There was a large donation of professional women’s clothing that had belonged to attorney Linda Baxter, who passed away in June 2010. It was Baxter’s wish that the clothing be given to clients at the coalition — that was the impetus for the affair.
Debbie Benjamin, special projects coordinator, said the clothing was stored in the room right next to where the fire started in early August in the Women’s Coalition crisis center. “It was very amazing the clothing wasn’t smoke or water damaged,” Benjamin said. “Even clothing in a paper bag didn’t get damaged at all.”
They also brought in merchandise from Closet to Closet Women’s Coalition resale shop. Superior Court donated navy blue suit jackets, skirts, blouses and dresses perfect for business wear. Volunteers and employees of Women’s Coalition also donated clothing.
A client in transitional housing who wished to remain anonymous said she found outfits that fit her perfectly, and that she felt good in. “I am so happy to have been given the outfits,” she said. “It’s great that the Women’s Coalition reaches out to those in need.”
Benjamin said the committee couldn’t have done the event without the support of Barbara and Mike Walsh and O’Neals Transport for moving the merchandise and display racks. Ashley Stewart clothing donated hangers and Marianne’s clothing loaned round display racks that were placed tastefully around the huge gallery.
“You only get one chance at making a first impression,” Lavonne Wise, coalition lifestyles coach for the transitional housing program, said. “We want our clients to make the very best first impression.” She was offering advice on how to dress and how not to dress for work along with business etiquette and how to do an interview.
The gallery will be open for Women’s Coalition clients again on Tuesday and Wednesday.
