A partnership between local businesses and the Wheatland Crisis Society has brought a sense of female empowerment to the forefront for all involved.  

The Wheatland Crisis Society runs an emergency shelter along with providing critical support and resources for those facing abuse.  

Many of their clients that use the shelter come with nothing but the clothes that they are wearing when they arrive. The society has limited space for clothes storage, so they thought up a solution that also involved local businesses in the community.  

“We are really fortunate that we've been able to partner with both of the consignment stores here in Strathmore at Lil Hoots and also at Serendipity's,” explained Wheatland Crisis Society Team Lead, Carly Cole. "Folks can drop off their gently used condition clothing, and mention that they're consigning under the Wheatland Crisis Society.” 

The stores will then put the clothes on the floor to be sold, and the funds earned from the donation are put into an account for the Wheatland Crisis Society.  

“We've been able to give them gift cards during their stay with us and it just creates a lot of opportunity for self-care. It allows folks to go out into the community, pick out clothes in a nice store that fits them well and that they love.”  

Cole continued to say that a lot of clients that use the Crisis Society never get a chance to pick out their clothes often having to wear whatever is given to them.  

She did mention that while the two consignment stores accept women’s and children’s clothes, the shelter does keep clothes on hand for men. They also have been very grateful that the community has donated Wal-Mart and Mark’s Work Wear House gift cards to the society so they can provide the same experience to men as well.  

The owner of Serendipity’s, Elaine Svrcek, said that this partnership is close to her heart. She explained that the feeling of wearing clothes that you love can really cause someone’s spirits to lift.  

“It provides them with an opportunity to empower themselves by shopping. In a lot of situations that they come from financial abuse is part of that, so it empowers them to make their own choices and to buy things that make them feel good.”  

Svrcek explained that the account is used frequently. It brings to light that there is an issue of abuse in Strathmore even if it is hidden in the shadows.  

“You know, everybody has their story. I do have a story and I definitely needed help at times and it's very important to give back whenever we can.” 

Lil Hoots and Serendipity’s both have their own accounts for those who are in need at their stores. If they sense someone is in need, they are able to pull funds from the account and help them out.  

All clothes to be donated must be fully washed and must not be damaged. Clothes that are deemed unfit to be put out on the floor will be donated to other shelters in need or be made into textiles.  

If you are suffering from abuse, housing, or simply need resources, the Wheatland Crisis Society can be reached at 403-934-6634 24/7.