Donations Help God's Closet Serve Spokane

By Autumn Dunzweiler

UCC communications coordinator

God’s Closet, an outreach under Renew Spokane, recently celebrated its thirteenth year serving the Spokane community. God’s Closet collects new and gently used clothing to provide at a Shop Day event held every three months, where families can leave with several bags of clothing for just a $1 entry fee.

During the latest Shop Day, KXLY, a local Spokane radio station, donated nine bags of coats from their Coats for Kids drive surplus. Many mothers shared how appreciative they were of the new coats. 

“There were nine huge bags donated,” shared Gayle Haeger, Upper Columbia Conference urban ministries coordinator. “We didn’t even get the chance to count them — we just pulled them out and hung them up as fast as we could.”

The event served 160 families, providing clothing for 399 children. Among those who attended, 70 were first-time visitors to God’s Closet, with many saying that Shop Day is the only time they go shopping all year. 

Patty Marsh, Upper Columbia Conference Adventist Community Services director shared, “It was so impactful watching young fathers shopping for newborn clothes, seeing different family units, and listening to mothers express their gratitude.”

God’s Closet works in collaboration with various Adventist churches and around 50 volunteers, all who have been vital in making each Shop Day successful. Volunteers frequently express their gratitude for the opportunity to help the community through God's Closet.

“I really love working with all the volunteers who make God’s Closet happen,” said Sara Maniscalco, God's Closet director. “Each week volunteers come together to sort clothes for several hours at a time.”

God’s Closet has also provided a platform to share other outreach opportunities, such as STEAM Ahead, summer programs, Vacation Bible School, Sabbath School, and dental clinics that distribute toothbrushes and educate families on the importance of dental hygiene.

God’s Closet is reliant on donations to keep its doors open, and the recent large donation from KXLY was much appreciated. However, God’s Closet requires further donations to sustain operations. Their most recent Shop Day was canceled due to a lack of clothing donations. 

“The charity’s name is fitting, as volunteers acknowledge that this is God’s ministry, and they rely heavily on Him to provide clothing, volunteers, and resources to sustain their operations,” said Maniscalco. “Despite facing numerous challenges, the charity has repeatedly witnessed God’s provision and remains honored and blessed to serve alongside Him.”

The next Shop Day is scheduled for August, but God’s Closet would be thrilled to receive an overwhelming amount of donations that would compel them to open even earlier. Those that wish to donate can call (509) 328-5900 and set up a time to drop off preemie through teen clothes, bedding, textile items, shoes, or diapers.