Clothing Closet
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LGBTQ+ Clothing Closet
At Just-As-You-Are Rainbow Sanctuary, clothing is more than fabric. It is safety, affirmation, and a way to show up in the world as who you truly are. Our LGBTQ+ Clothing Closet exists so that no one in our community has to choose between survival and authenticity.
Why this closet exists
Emporia already has several wonderful free clothing closets. Many are run by faith communities that support a wide range of people in need. At the same time, not every space feels safe or welcoming for LGBTQ+ people, especially for those who have experienced religious harm or who are in the middle of exploring their gender or sexuality.
Our clothing closet is built specifically with queer and trans people in mind. It is a space where pronouns are respected, where no one is questioned for shopping in any section that feels right, and where trying something new is met with encouragement, not scrutiny.
Who the closet is for
Our closet is open to:
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Trans and nonbinary folks
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Queer and questioning people
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Allies who need affirming clothing for themselves or their loved ones
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Anyone whose identity or expression has made other closets feel uncomfortable or unsafe
You do not need to attend services. You do not have to “prove” anything about your identity. You are welcome as you are.
What we offer
Our selection changes often, but typically includes:
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Everyday clothing in a wide range of sizes and styles
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Gender affirming options for people exploring new looks or presentations
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Professional and semi-formal outfits for job interviews, school events, and important moments
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Outerwear, shoes, accessories, and basics when available
For our trans siblings, we are building a dedicated section that currently includes chest binders, with more gender affirming shapewear and items coming soon. We are committed to offering these items with care, privacy, and guidance when requested.
How it works
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Cost: Everything in the closet is free.
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Access: Visit during our regular Sanctuary hours on Thursday evenings.
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No referral, ID, or paperwork is required.
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Volunteers are available if you would like help finding sizes, styles, or outfits that feel right. You are also welcome to browse privately and take your time.
There is no judgment here. Only support, safety, and joy.
Made possible by our community
Our LGBTQ+ Clothing Closet is made possible in part through generous support from the Trusler Foundation, whose funding helps us provide a dedicated, affirming resource for our community.
It is also sustained by the many individuals, families, and local groups who donate gently used and new clothing. Every shirt, binder, pair of shoes, and winter coat on our racks represents someone in Emporia choosing to care for their neighbors.
If you would like to donate clean, gently used clothing or new gender affirming items, please contact us or bring donations during our open hours. Your support directly helps local LGBTQ+ people access clothing that matches who they are inside.
You are welcome here. You deserve to feel at home in your own skin and in your own clothes.
MAKE DONATION
Please consider donating to help us provide support for the Emporia LGBTQ+ community