Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne-Marie Sousa.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Catie’s Closet was started in 2010, in an effort to honor my daughter who passed away that March. She and I had talked about the homeless situation in Lowell and in particular, I had asked her if she knew anyone who was homeless when she attended Lowell High School. She said, “of course I did Ma. They just want to be like everyone else.” That comment stuck with me. After Catie passed away, Lowell High wanted to start a scholarship in her name. Instead, I asked them if they could give me space in the school to house clothing and toiletries for the homeless students and students with financial need. My intention was to have this one place, in her high school, to honor her memory while also providing necessary items to students in need. Little did I know at the time how widespread the needs was across the state, and country, and how much Catie’s Closet would expand.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some things were a little easier than others. Surprisingly, getting the clothing donations was easier than I expected, especially as we started to expand. The support from the community has been overwhelming. Donors go out of their way to bring us their gently used clothing, knowing that they are going to kids who truly need them. Getting into some of the schools was challenging, mostly because of space issues. However, as we grew and the word spread about the unique model of our closets, school leaders got very creative in finding space to offer us. As like any non-profit, we are always in need for financial support by actively pursuing grants, business partners and individual donors. We realize there are a lot of worthy non-profits in the area and we are extremely grateful for all of the support we receive!
On a personal level, the challenge is always around balancing the loss of Catie with the success of Catie’s Closet. I always felt that she was destined for something great. I just never realized that the greatness would come through her passing.
Please tell us about Catie’s Closet.
Catie’s Closet partners with schools to convert an unused room into a free “store” for students to access clothing and other necessities in a discreet manner, guided by a trusted faculty member. While there are other organizations that provide clothing to certain aged children, we are unique in that we are located within schools. This is essential because a student has immediate access to things they need, without going through any red tape or a waiting period. I am proud that we can play an instrumental part in changing children’s’ lives for the better. I am proud of our dedicated team of employees and volunteers who make this possible. And I am most proud of being able to honor Catie and her beliefs in such a positive, impactful way.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memories all revolve around time spent with my family. We had such great times sitting around the table playing board games. Being the youngest of ix, I think I just loved being all together.
Contact Info:
- Address: 19 School Street
Dracut, MA 01826 - Website: www.catiescloset.org
- Phone: 9789572200
- Email: anne-marie@catiescloset.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catiesclosetorganization/
- Twitter: @Caties_Closet
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