Several Alberni Valley businesses are helping employees get ahead by supporting Kuu-us Crisis Line Society’s Fresh Start program.
Fresh Start provides employment attire to people who otherwise cannot afford it.
The program itself is getting a bit of a fresh start, spokesperson Mya Driver said.
“We’ve had a couple of people come in and ask about the program, wondering if we have any shoes. That’s where it started,” she said.
Clothing donated to the Fresh Start program will be separate from the regular Kuu-us clothing program, and will be allotted on an as-needed basis, she said. Seva Dhaliwal is overseeing the program.
Local businesses are getting involved by donating clothing and accessories to the program. Mark’s, for example, helped one employee keep a new job when she needed specialized anti-slip footwear. Gayle Stephen-Player, from Gayle’s Fashions, said she and other Uptown merchants will be donating clothing.
Other stores that have donated to the Fresh Start program include Jay’s Lace It Up, Treadsetters Shoes and LB Woodchoppers. The Attic has agreed to donate new clothing every second week, Driver said.
Fresh Start is in need of good work shoes as well as running shoes, dress pants and shirts for both men and women.
“We always need socks. They go very quickly,” she added.
Anyone wishing to donate items may do so by calling Kuu-us at 250-723-2323. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the office, 4589 Adelaide St. at Johnston Road.
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