There's a new store in town where women just starting out or transitioning to a new life don't have to spend a dime to get an armload of fresh towels and linens, new dishes or even a coffee maker.
It's called Bea's Kloset and it operates out of two stalls at a Coquitlam storage facility.
Stocked to the rafters with household goods, cleaning materials, lamps and small furniture, Bea's Kloset is the latest Tri-Cities Soroptimist project. This one will help girls in foster care transition to a new life as an independent adult and women leaving the local recovery home who are starting on the next chapter of their journey.
"This is for people who need a hand up, not a hand out," explained Linda Kozina, a longtime member of the professional women's organization.
The store operates completely on donations, including the monthly storage fee, and it is constantly in need of stocking because several women a month are visiting to choose items to put in their new apartments.
"They are so grateful," said Bea Kelly, a founding member of the Tri-Cities Soroptimists for whom the free store is named. Kelly said one lady who recently visited Bea's Kloset was so thrilled with the items, she texted a photo of her new room.
"There was so many tears on both sides," recalled Darlene McCann, another member of the group.
The Soroptimists are linked with several agencies that support women and take clients by referral for Bea's Kloset. All the items are nearly new - some are even brand new - such as the cleaning supplies and fresh pillows that are given out.
People are encouraged to donate items with the proviso that they be in such good shape they could be re-gifted. "We don't want old or tired items, it costs us money to dispose of them," Kelly explained.
Julie Knisely said several items are in demand and the group is looking for donations, especially of lamps, side tables, small kitchen tables and chairs and kitchenware. Bed linens are also accepted but not pillows, beds or mattresses.
The group has a volunteer who launders everything so it's fresh. "We want them to walk away with things they can use," Kozina explained.
Cash donations or donations of laundry baskets and cleaning supplies are also welcomed. To contribute, email [email protected]. Bea's Kloset also has a Facebook Page.
