Rep. Burke Collecting Donations for Professional Women's Attire

EVERGREEN PARK, Ill. – To help women get back on their feet and enter the job market, Rep. Kelly Burke (36th District) is teaming up with Dress for Success Chicago in collecting gently used women’s professional clothing, which will help local women in need compete for jobs and succeed in the workplace. Residents are encouraged to drop off women’s professional attire at the Cotter Bowen Law Firm in Oak Lawn. The clothing drive continues through Dec. 1.

“I am thrilled to be working with Dress for Success Chicago and helping women across our area achieve personal and financial success,” Burke said in a news release. “Whether it’s your first job interview or you're changing careers, being properly dressed can give you the confidence boost you need to get the job you want.”

New or gently used items being accepted include contemporary suits, dresses, blazers, skirts, pants, cardigans, dress shirts and blouses, twin sets, winter coats, boots, handbags and totes, and accessories, including jewelry, belts, scarves, and dress shoes. Burke will also be accepting donations of new, unopened toiletries; hygiene and grooming products; cosmetics; and new hosiery including nylons and knee-highs, trouser socks, undergarments and control undergarments. All sizes are accepted, but Dress for Success is in greatest need for women’s clothing sizes 14 and above, handbags and purses, and office-appropriate shoes, sizes 7 and up.

Donations may be dropped off at Cotter Bowen Law Firm, located at 4544 W. 103rd St., Suite 102 in Oak Lawn from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday until Dec. 1. For questions, please call 708-425-9900.

“I encourage area residents to look through their closets and find that skirt or blouse you haven’t worn in ages and donate it to a great cause,” Burke said. “I believe it’s important for women to stick together and by donating new or used professional clothing, you can help change another woman’s life.”

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