Ophelia (Owen) Clarke
I'm a young community leader from Rideau Heights in Kingston, Ontario, passionate about creating practical, community-driven solutions to reduce barriers and promote dignity, self-expression, and inclusion. Through my project, Open Closet, we are developing a personalized, portable clothing initiative for people who face barriers accessing clothing. Inspired by my lived experience, I believe meaningful change comes from listening to communities, building strong partnerships, and advancing social justice by reducing economic inequality and creating spaces everyone feels represented, respected, and empowered.
Open Closet
Open Closet addresses clothing gaps—people lacking access to basic clothing in supportive environments such as schools, hospitals, shelters, nursing homes, and community care programs where basic needs are not always met. It is a "portable thrifting experience" that goes beyond simply filling clothing gaps, offering a more personal and dignified way for people to ‘shop’ for clothing rather than receiving random donated items that may not fit their needs or preferences.

À propos de ce projet
Communautés servies
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Les objectifs de développement durable de l’ONU
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Le fonctionnement du projet
We will partner with organizations to install 1–2 portable clothing racks that are regularly replenished as inventory decreases. Participants can complete a clothing preference form indicating their sizes and style preferences. These preferences will guide our thrifting and sourcing efforts, creating a more personalized, dignified, and accessible clothing experience.
Résumé de l'impact
Open Closet will improve clothing access by installing portable clothing racks within community organizations, bringing clothing directly to people who need it. Through personalized clothing preference forms, participants can share their sizes and style preferences, promoting dignity, choice, and self-expression. By reducing economic barriers and expanding access, the project aims to strengthen inclusion, confidence, and well-being.
Résumé de la mission
Open Closet's mission is to improve clothing access by delivering a portable, personalized clothing experience that promotes dignity, choice, and self-expression for people facing barriers to traditional clothing services.
Équipe du projet
Led by a founder and project collaborator, with support from volunteers and community partners
- Ophelia Clarke - Founder and Project Lead Ana da Ponte Thomson - Project Collaborator
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