Our History

our mission

To improve the quality of life to those most in need.

We do this by offering encouragement, hope, and dignity through meeting their daily needs, giving the opportunity for individuals to meet their full potential.

how we started

Our History

1970-2006

Marian Mochel, a beloved Wadsworth teacher identified needs among local students and began keeping a closet of clothing and supplies for children in need. Marian also founded Wadsworth FISH a local non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance and compassionate care to neighbors and served as the Director. Kris Turner took over as Director of Wadsworth FISH and with help from others started a free clothing store to supplement the offerings of FISH.

2007

Marian’s Closet, the non-profit organization was founded to expand on Marian’s original mission. The Closet was set up as a retail store, showcasing donations and allowing individuals and families to shop for items to meet their needs. The first location was at 191 College Street and due to generous donations and the passion of leaders and volunteers the ministry outgrew the 800 square foot space.

2009

A new location at 134 College Street was secured and Marian’s Closet continued to grow. The building offered 2,400 square feet with improved parking and handicap access. The Closet opened to the public 4 days a week. Through local partnerships and word of mouth, the Closet began to attract individuals and families both near and far. The unique co-op agreement provided clients the ability to contribute annual dues in exchange for monthly shopping privileges.

2011

Through prayer and providence, the current location on 154 East Street became available and The Closet has continued to thrive. Now serving individuals and families in over 200 zip codes and with over 900,000 items distributed, the ministry of the organization is increasingly critical.

2022

As the COVID-19 pandemic put even more strain on the community Marian’s Closet serves and despite a few short closures, The Closet continues to provide a way to make ends meet. As a new normal emerges, leaders and volunteers are renewed by an unwavering commitment to the ministry and a brand refresh to continue to grow the mission of the organization. Similar to manna from heaven, The Closet continues to be blessed by provision and generosity to continue the mission of improving the quality of life for those in need.

What We Do

We fulfill our mission statement through the distribution of the following quality items. All items distributed to those in need come to us by way of our caring community. Shoppers visiting The Closet can expect to contribute a small annual cooperative fee to gain access to a generous allowance of items each month.