Closet for Humanity

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Clothing, Dignity, and Entrepreneurship for All

Program Overview

Closet for Humanity is a community-run initiative based at 5959 Main Street, Williamsville, NY, dedicated to helping individuals and families in need through free and affordable clothing events, small-business training, and volunteer engagement. The program operates with the support and fiscal partnership of WNY Muslims, a faith-based nonprofit that provides space, volunteers, and oversight. Closet for Humanity connects people across faiths and cultures, promoting self-sufficiency, compassion, and community well-being in Western New York. 

Addressing Community Needs in Western New York

Western New York continues to face significant economic challenges, particularly for families, refugees, and immigrants. Many individuals struggle to access affordable clothing and lack the knowledge or resources to start small businesses. 

Closet for Humanity meets both of these needs by: 

  • Providing essential clothing and household items at no or minimal cost 

  • Equipping participants with practical skills and confidence to pursue entrepreneurship and long-term self-reliance 

This dual approach supports immediate needs while fostering sustainable empowerment within the community. 

Goals & Methods

  • Provide free and affordable clothing to individuals and families in need. 

  • Empower local entrepreneurs through mentorship and business training. 

  • Engage youth in meaningful volunteer and internship opportunities. 

  • Promote collaboration and compassion among diverse communities. 

How We Do It?

  • Collect, sort, and distribute donations through recurring community events. 

  • Register vendors for hands-on entrepreneurship workshops. 

  • Host weekend community markets featuring trained small business owners. 

  • Reinvest minimal event proceeds into supplies, marketing, and outreach. 

  • Partner with local congregations and civic groups to expand reach and participation. 

This approach ensures community support, skill-building, and sustainable impact for both recipients and local entrepreneurs. 

Team
The program is community-led and managed by volunteers and representatives from several local organizations. Core team members include Faizan Haq (Manage Your Business / Primo MSO), Dr. Riffat Sadiq (WNY Medical), Farina Mirza (WNY Muslims), and Yahya Alrani (Hawk Development). Each contributes expertise, time, and resources—on average 20 volunteer hours per week. Community members and youth participate in sorting, event setup, training sessions, and public outreach. 

Event Schedule & Future Plans 

Regular Events: 

  • Donation and distribution events are held at Masjid Al-Eiman on (TBD). 

Special Events: 

  • A larger fair-style event is planned for (TBD), marking the launch of the program’s expanded model that integrates business training and vendor participation. 

Future Goals: 

  • Develop mobile collection drives to reach more communities. 

  • Establish multiple drop-off locations across Western New York to make participation easier. 

These initiatives aim to increase accessibility, community engagement, and impact throughout the region.