Oklahoma City – Students at Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) now have access to free clothing through the school’s first Clothes Closet. The service, which opened May 20, is in partnership with Sharing Tree, a local nonprofit that serves families in need by providing a no-cost, dignified shopping experience.

According to OCCC President Jerry Steward, the Clothes Closet was created for OCCC students who need additional clothing, whether it’s basic, everyday wear or professional wear for job interviews or special events.

“More than 60 percent of OCCC students who don’t return to college do so for non-academic reasons,†Steward said. “Many of our students face significant struggles. We hope the clothing closet will minimize some of the hardships they battle.â€

Served to complement the OCCC Food Pantry that opened in 2018, the Clothes Closet is one more resource to which OCCC students have access. According to a recent study by the federal government, college students struggle with academic success when their basic needs aren’t met.

“Their hardships come as no surprise to our faculty and staff,†Steward said. “They witness the very real needs of our students every day.â€

The OCCC Clothes Closet is located in the Social Sciences Center in room 1H12 on OCCC’s main campus. The closet is open to any OCCC student with a current student ID. The closet is open Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., as well as Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students can visit the closet once per week.

The OCCC Clothes Closet accepts donations consisting of gently-used clothing and shoes. Donations can be dropped off in the Recreation and Fitness Office located in the Wellness Center. For more information call 405-682-7860. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer may contact Patricia Ross at 405-682-1611 ext. 7442 or patricia.l.ross@occc.edu.