Clothing is one of our most basic needs, yet it can often be one of the most expensive. Researchers believe the average family of four spends over $2,000 on clothes annually. This tends to vary based on the ages of the children. Younger children are often less expensive to clothe, while teens have more expensive tastes.
Getting your hands on clothing can be a financial burden, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you need new clothes for your children, a suit for a job interview, or you want to update your wardrobe; there are many ways to get free clothes when you are short on cash or on a strict budget. We created this article to show you the best ways to find free clothes.
Here we will answer some of the most common questions on how you can find free clothes:
- Is it possible to get clothes for free?
- What organizations offer free clothes?
- Are there any eligibility requirements?
- How can I find aid organizations in my state?
- Can I call 2-1-1 to ask for help?
- Is it considered a public charge to receive this help?
Is it possible to get clothes for free?
Yes. Below we have listed several organizations and places that provide free clothing to those in need.
- Churches: Local churches often have clothing closets that offer free clothing to anyone in need. Depending on the types of donations the church accepts, you can get new, nearly new, or gently used clothes. Some larger nonprofit organizations may also partner with local churches to provide free clothing. Search “free clothing at churches near me” to find churches that provide free clothing in your community. In most churches, there are no eligibility requirements, and you usually don’t have to show proof of income to receive help.
- Facebook Groups/ Facebook Marketplace: Don’t overlook Facebook Marketplace as a place to get free clothing. Use the search bar and type in phrases like “free clothes” or “free” and browse what’s available nearby.
Many communities also have Buy Nothing groups on Facebook where people post things they giveaway for free such as clothes, shoes, and more. There are no eligibility requirements; you only need a Facebook account to access these groups. - Freecycle.org: The Freecycle Network is a nonprofit organization that connects you with local people giving away free stuff. With over 9 million members represented in 5,300+ towns and cities, it is an excellent resource for free clothing. All you have to do is sign up with your email address to create a free membership account.
- Dress For Success: This national organization helps low-income women who want to make their careers. They provide women with interview dresses or suits so that they will feel good and confident in themselves and give a better performance. To find your local site, please visit https://dressforsuccess.org/affiliate-list/.
How can I find aid organizations in my state?
Using the following link, you can find free clothing in your state and even narrow it down to your local county! Go to https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/clothing_closets.html to find local aid organizations in your area.
For your convenience, we have listed a few major states and cities below:
California
- Los Angeles County: Downtown Service Center
Address: 1021 S. Hope St. Los Angeles, California 90015
Whether it is clothes, shoes, or free bookbags for the back-to-school season, help is available. They also offer information on cash assistance in Los Angeles County, furniture banks, and resources for single moms or dads.
New York
- New York City: NeON Clothing Closets
Address: 100 Centre St #10th New York, NY 10013
This organization offers gently used business attire, casual clothes, shoes, and accessories in five NeON Clothing Closets throughout the five boroughs. Anyone in the community is welcome to come and select a few items.
Texas
- Dallas: Crossroads Community Services
Address: 4500 S. Cockrell Hill Road Dallas, TX 75236
This organization offers a wide variety of free summer and winter clothing for men, women, and children. To be served, you must provide proof of residency in Dallas County (so a bill) and an ID.
- Houston: Emergency Aid Coalition
Address: 5401 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77004
Their clothing center provides clothing for men, women, and children. You must provide a valid ID and birth certificates for children 18 or younger to be assisted.
Can I call 2-1-1 to ask for help?
Yes, you can call 2-1-1 and ask for organizations that offer free clothing for low-income people near you.
Is it considered a public charge to receive this help?
It is not considered a public charge if you receive this help. Therefore, it does not affect your immigration status. For more information, click here.
