Repeat Boutique breaks record in helping people in need
More inflation and more immigrants in our community meant more people than ever before sought free clothes and household good at Repeat Boutique in 2023.
Volunteers served 3,770 shoppers representing 14,145 people — 50% more in 2023 than in 2022.
Repeat Boutique eagerly encourages the community to donate clothing and housewares, to keep the inventory supplied. Financial donations help keep the doors open to continue serving a growing population.
Volunteers helped families from 70 different countries speaking 54 different languages.
Many clients were fleeing challenging circumstances in their homelands, including 268 families from Ukraine, 116 from Russia, 84 from Burma, 40 from Syria, 38 from Sudan, 22 from Afghanistan, and 21 from Iraq. Immigrants from Latin America included 131 families from Venezuela, 104 from Mexico, 43 from Columbia, and 31 from Cuba.
Repeat Boutique does not charge for its merchandise, and welcomes people in need who bring referrals from charitable organizations, churches, and governmental agencies such as DuPage County Community Services.
This year, about 40% of referrals were from World Relief, which is conveniently located next to Repeat Boutique. Another 44% were from charitable organizations and governmental agencies, with the remaining referrals from churches.
Repeat Boutique is a 501(c)3 ministry serving DuPage County since 1973.
Repeat’s only expense is rent, as all staff members are volunteers, and all items for clients are donated throughout the year. Repeat provides clothing, shoes, linens, household items, games, toys, and small appliances. Clients may “shop” for free every three months to replenish supplies for their families.
To donate clothing or household items, or to make a financial donation, contact Repeat Boutique at (630) 462-7341 or visit www.repeatboutiquecenter.com.
Repeat Boutique is located at 191 S. Gary Ave., Suite 140, south of Route 64 and north of St. Charles Road in Carol Stream. Donations may be dropped off at the back entrance Monday through Friday.