The Free Store--Brunswick, Maine

The Community Services Center Clothing Bank in Brunswick, Maine, often called "The Free Store," has been serving the area for 48 years. Now our building is in need of repairs, and we are fundraising to rebuild a rotting porch, including handicap accessible ramp, for our clothing bank. There are areas that need to be re-insulated and other repairs as well. 

We provide all who come with free clothing, shoes and housewares. This amounts to more than 1600 items given to more than 100 families (250 individuals) weekly. Our generous donors keep us more than supplied with plenty for all. The program is run entirely by volunteer help. A crew, of around 25 volunteers, maintain and clean the building and grounds, empty the donation bin, sort, hang, and assist the customers. They log more than 140 volunteer hours weekly. Our only pay is the gratitude of the recipients. Some of the feedback we have received includes:

      “I am thankful that I am able to help my family. I get nice clothes for my grandchildren and work clothes for my daughters. They would be stranded without this!” 

      “I come to the clothing bank to find clothes to wear to work. My boss is very fussy, so it is nice to have a place with good clothes.” 

     “My niece and her family were in need of everything--clothes, shoes, etc., and they got it all here! My nephew is homeless, and the Center has been extremely helpful for him too. The Center helps all of us!”

     “I passed the interview! Thanks for the outfit!!!”

     “I started coming when you were on School Street. That was more than 25 years ago!”

     "I lost 50 pounds and had nothing to wear!" 

Your donation, of any size, will help us continue to provide for our community in this way.