Church to host free shopping day

If you would like to donate gently used clothing for men, women, children or infants, donations will be accepted at Monrovia Church of Christ on 595 Nance Road, Madison, AL, 35757. The Closet is open to anyone facing financial stress due to job loss, illness or any other issues causing financial strain.

Monrovia Church of Christ will host a day of free shopping for families facing financial stress. The “Closet” will be held Saturday, Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monrovia Church of Christ places a high priority on being a servant within the community and both Jay and Summer Darnell, coordinators of the Closet at Monrovia Church of Christ have been working hard to make the event a huge success.

The Closet is a nonprofit clothing ministry “committed to sharing the love of Jesus by providing quality used clothing, shoes and accessories to families facing financial stress sponsored locally by Monrovia Church of Christ,” said Summer Darnell.

Summer Darnell said they have several volunteers that will be assisting in a variety of roles from personal shoppers to babysitters.

Families in need of clothing will receive a dedicated shopping time and free “Closet Dollars” upon check-in for each of their family members to spend at the store.

“We have gently used clothing for men, women, children and infants as well as shoes and accessories,” said Summer Darnell. “The economy has impacted a lot of people throughout the nation, state and our community. By providing free clothing to those facing financial stress, we hope the free shopping day will alleviate at least one of their areas of concern,” said Summer Darnell.

Summer Darnell said they decided to host this event based not only on those who were impacted by the April 2011 tornadoes, but because starting a clothing ministry to assist those facing a financial crisis blended well into their mission of serving others.

This is the first free shopping day. “It is our expectation to hold at least two free shopping days per year, one near the beginning of the school year, and another around the first of December for winter clothing and coats.”