New wardrobe service opens in Karratha for locals doing it tough
A permanent wardrobe service has launched in Karratha, providing free new clothing to people experiencing hardship.
Through Anglicare WA's Thread Together initiative, the service allows people to choose clothes that suit their needs and personal style, helping restore a sense of dignity and confidence during challenging times.
The initiative is part of a broader rollout across the North West, with mobile wardrobes due to launch in Port Hedland, Broome, and Kununurra.
Funded by a $20,000 Horizon Power Community Partnership grant, the program has also received support from Horizon Power volunteers, who assisted with transport and assembly of the wardrobe.
Anglicare WA chief executive Mark Glasson said while the service had been growing in demand and delivery in Perth, the partnership would allow it to expand into the Pilbara and Kimberley, supporting more West Australians doing it tough.
'More people than ever before are going without suitable clothes, prescription medicines and other essential items, as they have no income left after paying for accommodation, bills and food,' he said.
'An increasing number of women and children have also needed the support of services like Thread Together to start over after escaping family and domestic violence.
'The housing crisis and cost-of-living continues to affect people right across the State, but we know these issues are exacerbated in WA's regions, particularly in the Pilbara and Kimberley.
'People in need deserve the dignity and choice of new clothing, without judgment.'
Referrals for the program can be made through a range of local community and social services, including Anglicare WA and headspace.
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