By: Amanda Rabito

On Oct. 14, 2023, a couple of Junior League members had the opportunity to support the Free Store of Wilkinsburg during their weekly Saturday shopping hours. Junior League members prepared clothing by reviewing their condition, and hanging a plethora of recent donations to go out on the store’s floor. Free Store Wilkinsburg is run by Civically, a 2022-2023 grantee of JLP. JLPer’s met Civically’s founder, Marita Garrett, to hear more about the Free Store’s operations and mission to provide tools to promote self-reliance in the community. On this particular Saturday, Free Store Wilkinsburg opened its “Career Closet,” a special section of the store featuring professional clothing aimed at individuals looking to build their professional wardrobe. Additionally, a career counselor was on site to guide shoppers with interview prep, and resume review. Needing to donate gently used housewares or clothing? Consider dropping them off during Free Store’s daily drop-off hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.