There’s only one phrase that can describe clothing exchanges: they’re the cat’s pajamas.
The Cat’s Pajamas Clothing Exchange takes place this weekend at ARTS/West, 132 W. State St. This is the sixth year of the clothing exchange, which originally began as a fundraiser for the Federal Valley Resource Center, where Emily Beveridge worked while in AmeriCorp. The event had always been hosted at ARTS/West, but eventually turned into a fundraiser for the facility.
“(The clothing exchange) started because I wanted to start doing something for a fundraiser and I liked the idea of clothing exchanges,” said Beveridge, the founder and head organizer of Cat’s Pajamas. “I started thinking it could be something we do as a community.”
The event is run by a group of between 30 to 70 volunteers. Last year, the exchange raised close to $2,000, and the majority of the amount usually comes from the entry fee.
“The entry fee is how we raise the money,” said Beveridge. “Because of the amount of clothes we offer, it’s still a pretty minimal fee to pay.”
For those who donated clothing before the event, they receive a “golden ticket” which allows them to take as many pieces of clothing that they want. For those that bring donations to the exchange, they can take as many pieces as they brought in, and then pay $1 for each additional item. For those who made no donations, each piece is $1.
Before the event, Beveridge estimates that the early donations of clothing can fill two small rooms at ARTS/West. Last year, the clothing left over from the exchange had an estimated value of $7,000, according to Beveridge. In the past, pieces were donated to Goodwill, and will be donated this year to ReUse Thrift Store, 100 Columbus Rd.
Clothing donations will be accepted at the event. The only stipulation is that the clothing is gently used.
“If you can wear it, we can take it,” Beveridge said.
If You Go
What: 6th Annual Cat’s Pajamas Clothing Exchange
When: 6-10 p.m., Friday, 12-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
Where: ARTS/West, 132 W. State Street
Admission: $10 Friday, $5 Saturday and Sunday
