Letter: Do what you can to support the Community Closet

To the editor:

I would like to give a shout out to the people who keep the Community Closet thrift shop running.

I am not affiliated with the Community Closet, but I am a fond patron and supporter.

It is probably not widely known just how far-reaching the good work of this organization extends.

The shop is staffed by volunteers where clothing and most household donations are accepted, sorted, organized by size and category, and sold to the public, or they are given away to those in need. Some recipients have suffered loss due to house fires or loss of income through no fault of their own. Proceeds from the sale of donated items are distributed responsibly for assistance with utility payments or other essential needs.

During the current pandemic, some of the regular volunteers may fit the description of the most vulnerable due to physical condition or their place in a household where they are caregivers for the most vulnerable. It is understandable that they may deem it wise to avoid exposing themselves to the public currently.

I would like to suggest to those less vulnerable who find themselves with some free time to step into the shoes of the volunteers for the short term so that their good work can continue.

Lastly, I would like to encourage everyone to browse among the goods at the Community Closet and to make purchases to support the distribution to those in unfortunate circumstances. Of course, masks and social distancing are in order when visiting any public establishment.

Although closed since Dec. 28, the CC projects reopening at the end of February. I am sure the needs will only be greater by that time. It is my understanding that the cost of overhead must be maintained, or the thrift shop will have to close permanently.

The Community Closet is located at 284 S. Van Buren St., Nashville, Indiana on the lower level.

Christine Ritzmann, Brown County

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