Sharing Connections Dedicates New Space for Clothing Donations

DOWNERS GROVE, IL, July 22, 2015 - A newly remodeled space in the 9,000 square foot warehouse of Sharing Connections was dedicated today. Downers Grove Mayor, Martin Tully, Sharing Connections Staff, Board of Trustees, Volunteers and Project Donors cut the ceremonial ribbon and celebrated the grand opening of the new space, named the "Guest Closet."

With a layout and materials from Closets by Design, corporate and individual donors made the new space possible. Volunteers of the organization meticulously organized and filled the shelves, drawers and hanging space - something they will continue to do with new donations.

"This new space offers a much more enticing presentation of the clothes we have to offer," said Executive Director, Carrie Provenzale. "We are focused on the experience of our guests - they are referred to us during a difficult time of their lives."

Deanna Marotz, representative of Invesco Cares Downers Grove, expressed her thanks on behalf of the charitable Committee for Invesco. "We are grateful for the opportunity to get involved with Sharing Connections. When our employees volunteered here and learned how this organization helps the community, we had to commit to this worthy cause."

Families in need are typically referred by various agencies to Sharing Connections for furniture and household goods. However, in recent years, the organization has accepted clothing in good condition and now offers it to the families who visit the facility to collect their household needs. Donated clothing that is not in acceptable condition is processed through a recycling program, which benefits other organizations and, in some cases, provides funds to the Sharing Connections.

The organization serves on average about 6,000 families per year. "Sharing Connections is an iconic, not-for-profit organization in Downers Grove. We are very grateful for all the good work you do because it makes our community a better place to work, live, play and thrive," said Mayor Tully.

Sharing Connections Founder, Leeanne McGrath remarked, "Thank you to everyone who has joined our journey to create what we are today - our donors, our volunteers, our referring agencies - all who make this space special for our community family in need."

If you have furniture, household goods or clothing to donate, or would like to make a financial donation, visit the organization's website for further information. www.sharingconnections.org

About Sharing Connections:

Sharing Connections is an Illinois registered 501c3 not-for-profit organization. The families served by SC include the previously homeless, unemployed and working poor, veterans, victims of domestic violence, immigrants, individuals with mental or physical disabilities, victims of fire, flood and natural disasters, etc. They have housing, but are faced with the harsh reality that their "home" is empty or severely under-furnished - without cribs and beds for the children, a table, chairs and dishes to share meals, or even a sofa to sit on and relax. Sharing Connections Vision: Tonight, everyone eats at a table and sleeps in a bed. Mission: Share good things with good people. www.sharingconnections.org