Curt’s Closet shares year-end report, looks forward to 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Ashley Wilson, founder and director of Cullman-based Curt’s Closet, shared with The Tribune her organization’s report for 2024, as well as plans for the coming year.
Curt’s Closet is a ministry providing clothing and accessories to children and youth ages 19 and younger, while offering help to adults and families as resources are available. It is no typical clothing closet, though; kids who meet eligibility requirements can “shop” in a setting that feels like a typical specialty boutique featuring only new and very gently used clothing, promoting their dignity by allowing them the retail experience but without having to spend a single cent. The organization also provides new toys and winter clothes through its seasonal program Curt’s Christmas.
By the numbers
Curt’s Closet served over 3,500 clients in 2024, through direct engagement and partnership with other local organizations including The Link of Cullman County, Cullman County DHR, WellStone Behavioral Health, Victim Services of Cullman and others.
Of those served, 90% were children and youth ages 4-18.
Curt’s Christmas served 553 children and their families.
Growing infrastructure for growing opportunities
In 2024 Curt’s Closet doubled its storage and volunteer capacity with a second onsite warehouse, and enhanced visitors’ experiences with an improved parking area.
Wilson shared, “In 2024, finishing our new addition of our clothing warehouse was a huge accomplishment and a much needed space as our numbers continue to grow. The new warehouse houses our clothing, providing a much needed larger area to receive donations, and volunteer areas.”
What’s coming?
Curt’s Closet has benefitted for several years from its popular “Clothed in Cullman” annual fundraising luncheon and fashion show.
Wilson revealed, “We are in the early stages of planning a new fundraiser in addition to our annual fundraiser, Clothed in Cullman. We are in hopes to make this announcement soon. The new fundraiser we believe will be something new to the area and provide fun for the entire family.”
A community effort
“Curt’s Closet is so appreciative of all of our donors, from clothing donations to the supporters who support us financially,” said Wilson. “We appreciate all the donors who have joined us in our monthly sponsorships; this helps us tremendously. We appreciate Yearwood Construction and Brothers Concrete Supply for their hard work, dedication and support. We have many anonymous donors that have been a huge blessing to Curt’s closet and the clients we serve; they know who they are, as well as the local business owners who go above and beyond to give back to our community: Monogram Plus, McGriff Tire, Specialty Pharmacy, Three Pears, Mary Carters, James R. Smith Trucking, Lloyd Consulting, Premier Bank, Tesha Brewer State Farm, First Federal Mortgage, just to name a few.
“I always hate this part because I leave out so many wonderful supporters, which says a lot for our amazing community.”
Wilson said of the past year, “2024 was our best year ever. God has blessed our ministry beyond words. I give Him all the glory! So many people have joined forces with Curt’s Closet to see that our mission and vision are met daily.
“Not only has Curt’s Closet been able to meet the needs of so many that face clothing insecurities, but we have been able to provide multiple students with paid tuition to reach their goals and dreams through the Future Foundation at Wallace State, along with exceeding our numbers to provide Christmas for hundreds in our community. Curt’s Closet also has an amazing team that spreads the love of Christ daily to give hurting people hope.
“As we see our numbers increase yearly, our numbers in supporters do as well. I say it all the time but we truly live in a community like no other. The support and encouragement suppasses all others. If Curt’s Closet is ever in need of an item we make the call and in no time that need is met.
“Curt’s Closet has an outstanding team. Each employee and volunteer of Curt’s Closet is what makes our everyday tasks run so smoothly. I could not do it without each and every one of them. They not only bless our clients, this community, Curt’s Closet but myself daily.”
Get involved
Wilson encouraged everyone interested to get more information, find out how to donate money or goods, or sign up for the organization’s newsletter by visiting curtscloset.org. You can stay up to date on what is going on, what is coming and how your donations are making a difference.
Save the date!
Thursday, May 8, 2025, will be the annual Clothed in Cullman fundraiser for Curt’s Closet. Stay connected for more details.
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