At the Whitewater Community Space, visitors browse through racks of clothing, household essentials and food – all free of charge. What began as the Clothes Closet has grown into a vital community hub offering meals, books, children’s toys and even furniture with no identification, income or residency requirements.
The center, which opened in 2019, operates on a “no questions asked” policy, designed to help anyone in need, no matter their circumstances. These traits make it a unique resource in the community. For many, the space is not only a place to pick up necessities, but also a welcoming environment to find support and build connections with others.
“I don’t know if there’s anything quite like this at other places, or to this scale,” said Assistant Site Manager Sindy Wendt.
Unlike other donation centers or food pantries, the space is open to anyone. Some people even travel from neighboring states to donate items, showing the organization’s incredible reach and impact.
The center runs completely on donations and volunteer work, as there are no paid employees. Volunteers keep track of inventory, sort donations, stock shelves and assist visitors in finding what they need. Among these generous helpers is Sue Halbach, a retired elementary school teacher. She has been volunteering for the past year, finding fulfillment in serving and giving back to her hometown of Whitewater.
“It was hard to retire because I loved teaching – it was my calling,” Halbach said. “When this came up, I was like ‘this is perfect.’ It’s doing the same thing, helping people.”
Considering her 39 years spent in education, Halbach knows how important reading is. During her shifts, she especially enjoys working with families, often encouraging children to take home books. She sees it as an opportunity to share the love of reading with younger generations, as well as offer access to books they might not have been able to read otherwise.
“Whenever I see the younger children, I go, ‘Come on, let’s find some books,’” Halbach said.
Beyond books, the center’s needs are shifting with the season. With winter in full swing and temperatures dropping, the demand for warm clothing is at an all-time high. Winter coats, boots, gloves, hats, scarves, bedding and more are among the most requested items as families prepare for the harsh midwest climate.
At the same time, the center has shifted its food offerings to include more fresh produce and culturally relevant ingredients in an effort to support Whitewater’s growing Hispanic immigrant population. Having access to familiar foods helps families feel more at home and comfortable during a time full of new surroundings and unfamiliar faces.
Despite increasing needs, donations continue to pour in, reflecting the community’s determination to help one another. This wave of support helps ensure the center can continue to serve those who rely on it, strengthening Whitewater’s sense of community and generosity.
The Whitewater Community Space accepts donations of clothing, food and household items year-round. Those interested in contributing or volunteering can visit during open hours or learn more on their website.
