The Columbia Suit Project’s focus is to collect new and gently used clothing to donate to individuals in need. The original direction was to provide a suit, shirt and tie for interviews. But over the years we have been introduced to other areas of need.
We feel it’s important to not only help clothe people on the outside, but also on the inside; physically and spiritually. There is a need to help men who are wanting to get their lives back on track and a need for men’s clothing. Some of these men have earned their GED and now need to look the part for interviewing. I am taking this a few steps further to include High School and College students who cannot afford a suit for interviewing or graduation; as well as missionaries, military returning from active duty needing business clothing, etc. Also, it has been our joy to help young men from the Newberry Boys Farm, men at Reconciliation Ministries, Transitions Homeless Center, homeless Veterans, the S.C. Commission for the Blind, and those on probation and formally incarcerated. We probably have helped over 100 people specifically to dress the part for graduations, functions and job interviews.
From Ephesians 4: 22-24 and Colossians 3: 8-15, I want to help these guys see how they can change their lives. The “put off” and “put on” from the original Scripture quoted above, is a visual of taking off an old worn out garment and wearing it no longer and putting on or sinking into clothing; a new garment, to clothe oneself. Putting on a new man in Jesus.
We will custom fit individuals with lightly worn business attire which is appropriate for a professional business setting. The awardees’ name will be sewn into the coat. Properly fitted clothing helps with confidence and putting forth the correct image. Whenever available, shirts, ties, shoes, belts or socks will be awarded as well.
Paul McKeon, founder
Columbia Suit Project