From diapers to toothpaste and household cleaners, there are many essential items that Vermont's low-income benefits programs don’t pay for. But now there’s a place in Morristown where Lamoille County residents can pick up what they need. Last Thursday, Capstone Community Action held a grand opening for what it’s calling the "Essentials Closet." It operates like a food shelf, but instead of food, items like shampoo, toilet paper, or even a mop bucket are on offer.
Capstone Community Action director Brian Tagliaferro says the Essentials Closet fills a gap for people who need help making ends meet.
"Here's a space that folks can come and access toothpaste, toothbrushes, cleaning products – things, again, that you can’t get with your benefits," he said.
"This Essentials Closet is really a new idea," added Executive Director Sue Minter. "We know there’s a gap for what people need for their daily living that they can’t always get with the services that they have."
The closet started with a donation of diapers and feminine hygiene products from Seventh Generation and cash donations from The Alchemist. Officials hope to keep the closet stocked year-round through additional community donations.
