Visit the Ladies in Blue Clothing Closet, October 7, 10-8pm at the BRC
#BeavertonPolice
Ladies in Blue originated in 2015, when Beaverton Police Officer, Michel Wilson, came up with the idea to host a clothing exchange in her basement for women associated with the law enforcement community. Police officers, spouses, dispatchers and other professionals who worked with law enforcement, as well as their friends and family all came together in the spirit of sharing and empowerment.
After seeing the success of this event, Michel recruited Officer Mandi DeFrain and Sergeant DaNeshia Barrett to the group. Together, they shared a goal of including those in the community who could benefit most from access to gently used and new professional and casual clothing at no cost and without judgement.
In 2019, after several years of hosting the event at Mandi’s home, the Ladies in Blue Clothing Closet was formally established. The group hosted the first public event that year, drawing close to 200 community members, mostly women and girls from around the area to share clothing and support each other. Michel has always had a strong connection to fashion and recognized the importance of providing a safe space for community members to choose their own clothing. She also cherished the opportunity to create a positive and personal experience between community members and police.
Much of the clothing for these events continues to be donated by women who have a connection to law enforcement and want to give back to their community. Recently, a number of small business owners have begun to regularly donate clothing to the organization. Community members have also started donating. The clothing not selected at the event is always donated to local charities to be distributed to those in need.
Due to complications of the Covid-19 pandemic, Ladies in Blue was unable to hold the annual event in 2020.
For 2021, the Ladies hosted their fifth event at the Beaverton Resource Center (BRC). The work of the BRC is highly regarded by the Ladies in Blue and their support is appreciated. There were over 250 guests at this event.
The 6th annual Ladies in Blue Clothing Closet will be held at the BRC Friday October 7, 2022, from 10am to 8pm.
Looking toward the future, the Ladies in Blue Clothing Closet hopes to continue hosting this event on an annual basis. In an effort to serve the community in a greater capacity, the Ladies are exploring creating a nonprofit organization, which would allow them to accept other forms of donations, such as storage space, supplies, clothing and financial assistance.
Beaverton Resource Center (BRC), located at 13565 SW Walker Road is a community-based resource that offers assistance with basic needs, parenting, youth and crisis/abuse support.
Please feel free to contact the Ladies in Blue by email: ladiesinblue6125@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at ladiesinblue6125 for more information.
