Seven programs. One mission. Every neighbor served.
From the coldest weeks of winter to the first day of school, here’s how Derek’s Closet shows up for our community — year-round.
Winter Warmth Drive
Coats, gloves, hats, boots, thermals, blankets — the gear that stands between a neighbor and a hard winter night. We collect through the fall and distribute on the street, at the shelter, and at warming centers from November through February.
Most needed: new and gently used adult coats (all sizes, especially men’s L–3XL), wool socks, gloves, hand warmers, sleeping bags.
Community Food Drive
Hot meals served on the street. Grocery boxes for food-insecure families. Shelf-stable staples that stretch a paycheck through the end of the month. This work doesn’t stop — because hunger doesn’t take a season off.
Most needed: peanut butter, canned protein, pasta, rice, cereal, baby formula, hygiene items, gift cards to local grocery stores.
Christmas Toy Drive
Every kid deserves to wake up on Christmas morning with something to unwrap. We collect new, unwrapped toys all season and partner with families and shelters to make sure no child is left out of the holiday.
Most needed: new toys for ages 0–14, gift cards for teens, books, art supplies, sports equipment, wrapping paper.
Hospital-to-Home Support
Recovery shouldn’t depend on what you can afford. We bridge the gap between the hospital door and the front door — helping discharged patients cover small co-pays for prescriptions, medical equipment, and the supplies they need to heal safely at home.
Need help? Hospital social workers and case managers can reach out through our contact form. We respond within 48 hours.
Back-to-School Drive
Backpacks loaded with supplies. New shoes. A first-day outfit that fits. The basics every kid needs to walk into the first day of school feeling ready — not left out.
Most needed: backpacks, notebooks, pencils, calculators, glue, scissors, kids’ clothing (all sizes), new sneakers.
Community Haircut Days
Free haircuts for neighbors who need to feel human again. Sometimes the difference between a job interview and a closed door is a fresh cut. Sometimes confidence really does start in a barber’s chair.
Barbers & stylists: we’d love to add you to the rotation. Bring your chair, your clippers, and a few hours — we’ll bring the neighbors.
Fundraising Events
From annual galas to grassroots fun runs, our fundraising events bring the community together and keep every program on this page running. 100% of what we raise goes back into the work.
Find your way to help.
Every program runs on volunteers, donations, and community partners. Pick one — or pick all of them.