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- calendar_today October 15, 2026
Free Clothing Store Opens in Winnipeg
A unique free clothing store has opened its doors in Winnipeg, aiming to provide those experiencing homelessness with more than just clothing. Main Street Project, a downtown outreach organization, unveiled Ash's Closet on Thursday, offering clients the opportunity to personally select donated clothing items that fit their style, interests, and needs.
A Focus on Choice and Self-Expression
Until now, many Winnipeggers facing homelessness received clothing through pre-chosen donation programs. Ash's Closet seeks to change this by allowing individuals to independently choose what they wear. "Fashion was a really big passion for Ashley. She really took on the idea that fashion was a way that people expressed themselves," said Raymond Lyttle, an outreach worker with Main Street Project. He emphasized that aligning one’s outward appearance with one’s inner self can be "validating to the person," enhancing self-worth.
A Lasting Tribute to Ashley Tokaruk
The new clothing space is named in memory of Ashley Tokaruk, a dedicated volunteer at Main Street Project who passed away in 2021. Tokaruk was known for founding The Runway to Change, a fashion show that both raised money for the outreach organization and increased awareness about homelessness in Winnipeg. Her legacy lives on in Ash's Closet, and her family has played a significant role in the new initiative's success.
Autonomy and Dignity Through Clothing Choice
Lyttle highlighted that losing one’s home often strips people of everyday choices. By restoring the simple yet profound ability to choose their own clothes, Ash's Closet aims to offer greater autonomy, dignity, and a sense of self for clients of the outreach organization. Emma Riddell, case management coordinator, explained that while volunteers will "ring up" selected items at the free store for inventory purposes, the clothing will remain completely free of charge.
Community Support and Funding
The creation of Ash's Closet was made possible through fundraising efforts led by the Tokaruk family. Katherine Silver, Tokaruk’s aunt, shared that their efforts have brought in over $50,000 for Ash’s Closet as of Thursday morning, surpassing initial goals. "It will be a full-service store where people can come and shop and hopefully brighten their day, and it’s all thanks to Ashley," Silver said.
Opening and Accessibility
The free clothing store is situated inside Main Street Project’s downtown shelter and will be open on weekdays for all clients seeking clothing donations. Through this initiative, Main Street Project not only provides essential free clothing but also fosters fashion expression and client autonomy among Winnipeg’s homeless population.
With reporting from CBC News and contributions from Radio-Canada’s Océane Kouassi.
Source: cbc.ca.
