Results: Since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, we have offered 60% OFF on all clothing to customers and clients with pop-up sales of greater discount throughout the year. In the past 5 years, we have given away over $3.5 million in clothing (calculated at our deeply discounted prices, not actual value). We are the "closet" for 60 agencies in the Greater Pittsburgh area that serve women and address the following challenges: homelessness, addiction recovery, veterans, domestic violence, trafficking, formerly incarcerated, unemployed or underemployed, health concerns (such as mental ilness or cancer), natural disasters (such as loods or fires) and others.
Target demographics: promote the dignity and self-esteem of women, particularly women in transition or crisis
Direct beneficiaries per year: women collaborating with 60 agencies and giving away over $350,000 worth of clothing
Geographic areas served: Greater Pittsburgh area - Allegheny, Butler and Beaver counties
Programs: Treasure house fashions is a nonprofit women's resale shop- the "closet" for over 60 local agencies, but the public can shop there as well, generating operating revenue. 1) gift certificates for clothing at our shop are distributed through 60 local agencies to women in need. With gift certificates in hand, these women have the dignity of shopping for what they like, as well as what they need at no charge to either the agencies or individuals. 2) half off discount is provided for single moms, sassy seniors and military women daily during regular store hours. These three demographics experience challenges that can drain their energy and resources- our half off discount reinforces our support of their on-going challenges and efforts 3) social girls' night out events- after-hours shopping excursions- increase awareness and financial support of our mission. Women schedule an evening and invite their friends, family and co-workers to shop- each woman receives 40% off the shop's standardized prices (unless they qualify for half off discount) and the group has the option of providing their own refreshments. This provides a great bonding experience and the participants become familiar with the mission of treasure house fashions, as well as how it has impacted individual lives of women. 4) sponsored girls' night out events are underwritten by businesses, women's organizations or grant funding. For this event 12-15 clients from a selected women's agency come for an after-hours shopping excursion. Treasure house solicits "personal shoppers"- women from the community, women's organization or business- who volunteer to pair off one-on-one with a client and gently assist in merchandise selection, affirming the treasure within each client. After shopping, the clients and "personal shoppers" share in refreshments- a unique soft mentoring experience bonding over fashion and food. 5) networking with agencies, clubs, businesses and community organizations to collaborate in better serving women in our community.
to provide the means for women who have been abused, who are re-entering the job market, who are experiencing financial difficulty, who are in transition and/or crisis to shop at treasure house fashions.
