Helpful Links
Ministry of Social Development & Poverty Reduction: Recipients of Income Assistance and Disability (PWD) can apply once per year for a clothing crisis supplement of $110.
Fresh Start Back to School program offers free to local children a haircut, school supplies, new backpacks, lunch kits and a selection of gently used clothing and shoes. Only available one day a year shortly before school starts. Watch FB page for updates.
Work BC Nanaimo can offer financial support to job seekers in need of clothing.
Prom Closet Nanaimo: Offers help to high school students with suits and formal dresses.
Shoes for You can help people in crisis with a refurbished pair of shoes. Contact Kim at kimcoulthard@shaw.ca
Boots to Suits: Supports people in securing work or attending important meetings appropriately dressed. Access to the Boots to Suits clothing program is through a Men’s Centre counsellor or by referral from a work agency such as GT Hiring or Rhino etc. Clients will need a business card or letter from their prospective employer or agency stating they need a specific item.
Risebridge: Offers a free Clothing Closet to community members. Adult clothing only.
Big Deals Boutique: Specializing in curated, gently used women’s clothing, every purchase directly supports the programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island. Offers “Fill a bag for $15”.
Ceridian Cares: Offers grants between $200 to $5000 to help cover costs such as clothing and footwear, food and basic household needs and medical expenses. This is not an emergency resource as they can take up to 90 days to respond. To apply you must complete the Application for Grant form. The recipient of the grant may be any age, but an applicant can submit on behalf of a recipient.
Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo 