CULLMAN, Ala. – Although school just let out for summer vacation, back-to-school preparation is in full swing at local nonprofit Curt’s Closet.
Curt’s Closet serves children across the region who face clothing insecurity, providing more than just outfits and shoes, but also self-worth and confidence.
Founder and Executive Director Ashley Wilson said her journey fuels the heart of Curt’s Closet’s mission.
“I was a single mom,” Wilson explained. “I fought to find the best of the best for my kids at thrift stores. I’d wash and iron everything, trying to make it look new – not because they cared about labels, but because I wanted them to feel just as important as anyone else walking the halls at school.”
The organization accepts donations of clothing, shoes, backpacks, jewelry and more and redistributes them to kids in need, completely free of charge.
“We don’t just serve everyday needs,” Wilson added. “We respond to emergency situations, like families affected by house fires or kids going through Victim Services. We’re here when families are at their most vulnerable.”
One of Curt’s Closet’s most beloved efforts is its annual back-to-school drive, which has grown significantly over the years.
“We know what it feels like to start a school year with a fresh outfit and a new pair of shoes,” said Wilson. “It builds confidence, and confidence can change a child’s whole path. It can help them pass that test, make that friend, dream bigger.”
This year, Curt’s Closet has expanded its back-to-school shopping schedule, offering appointments from early June through the first week of August. Every child who visits will walk away with 10 clothing items, a brand-new pair of shoes, a backpack and new undergarments. They can receive up to five complete outfits – five tops and five bottoms – helping them start the year with outfits they feel confident in.
“We’ve added more opportunities, more essentials and more chances to boost these kids’ confidence,” Wilson said. “Sometimes all it takes is one person who believes in them and one small thing, like a new T-shirt, to remind them they’re just as worthy as anyone else.”
As W.C. Mann previously reported, Curt’s Closet serves children, teens and some adults through a need-based qualification process, plus children referred by school principals or counselors, the Cullman County Department of Human Resources and Victim Services of Cullman. The ministry also makes its resources available in emergency circumstances like house fires. Qualified kids and their parents/caretakers get to come and “shop” in an inviting space that is far more like a shop than a charity clothing closet, and walk out with dignity and a selection of high-quality clothing and accessories – a fair bit of it brand new, thanks to local donors and businesses – at no charge.
To donate, volunteer or seek assistance, visit https://sites.google.com/view/curtscloset or www.facebook.com/cw20curtscloset, call 256-735-4557 or email curtscloset20@gmail.com.
Copyright 2025 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
