Recipients in Revere clothing program have style choices

by Laura Bednar

Heart of Revere’s latest program, “Heart Box,” provides clothes to families in need based on each family member’s individual style.

Heart of Revere is a nonprofit that serves families in Bath and Richfield dealing with financial hardship. The organization is funded through donations and provides multiple services including clothing for men, women and children through the Revere Closet.

Heart Box takes the Revere Closet one step further by tailoring clothing choices to each recipient. Heart of Revere founder Torina White said the idea was conceived because the closet had an abundance of items and the group wanted to make it easier for families to receive clothes.

Volunteers from Heart of Revere and a volunteer with a retail clothing background act as stylists, choosing apparel based on an application sent by each recipient.

White said the application includes “frequency needed, sizes and what colors or styles to avoid.” She said the form also asks the person to indicate their favorite color, favorite style and brand preference. The closet may not have that brand, but it helps stylists gauge size.

Based on preferences, hobbies and interests, clothing is chosen and sent monthly to a person’s doorstep, or it can be picked up at the Revere Closet. White said the group might add an outdoor shed at the Revere Closet location on Ira Road for future pickups.

The closet has Revere spirit wear for students in specific clubs or parents looking to support their child. “We have more than what families envision we have on hand,” White said.

The program is not solely for students. White said the closet also has clothing for men, women,  elementary school kids and younger, in addition to teenagers. Heart Box differs from the closet in that it is more personalized.

One stylist oversees emails and applications that come in and adds a note to each box indicating which items are inside and telling recipients to reach out with any style changes for the next delivery. According to the Heart of Revere website, “Whether you decide to keep it all or only a few pieces, it’s up to you. Just send back any items or donate to a friend.”

White said if the program grows, Revere students may be asked to act as stylists. Students from Cuyahoga Valley Career Center might also participate.

“Heart of Revere offers hair and makeup [services] before dances or the prom,” said White.

To offer this service, White said volunteers might ask help from CVCC cosmetology students, who could earn credits or training hours.

Anyone in the Revere district can participate in Heart Box, not just students or parents of students. Those interested can email heartofreverestylist@gmail.com. ∞