Joan’s Closet provides maternity, postpartum, and baby clothing to families in the Rochester community, at no cost.
Temporarily Closed for Improvements
We’re taking some time behind the scenes to improve Joan’s Closet so we can serve our community even better. We are not accepting donations or fulfilling requests right now.
We look forward to reopening soon. Thank you for your patience and support. It means everything to us.
What Is Joan’s Closet?
Joan’s Closet is a community-driven program within Kindred Connection, created to support expectant and new parents by providing maternity, postpartum, and baby clothing at no cost. Pregnancy and early parenthood bring both joy and unexpected challenges, and no one should have to worry about having the essentials they need during this time.
Through donations from generous community members, we offer gently used and new clothing for pregnant and postpartum people, as well as baby clothing from preemie sizes through 24 months.
Honoring Joan’s Legacy
Joan’s Closet is named in memory of Joan Alaimo Smith, the grandmother of Kindred Connection co-founder Jenna Hine. Joan was known for her generosity, kindness, and deep appreciation for sustainability. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for, always willing to give whatever she could to those who needed it. This program carries her legacy forward.
How It Works
- Donations. We accept new and gently used maternity, postpartum, and baby clothing in clean, excellent condition.
- Distribution. Clothing is provided at no cost to families, with no income requirements.
- Sustainability. Redistributing clothing reduces waste and builds care and connection in our community.
Who Can Use Joan’s Closet?
Joan’s Closet is open to families in the Rochester area who are pregnant, postpartum, or in need of baby clothing. Whether you’re preparing for birth, adjusting to life with a newborn, or looking for the right size for your growing baby, we are here to support you.
What We Accept
- Maternity clothing, including tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear
- Gently used nursing and pumping bras
- Postpartum-friendly clothing, like comfortable loungewear and nursing-friendly apparel
- Baby clothing from preemie to 24 months, including sleepers, onesies, socks, hats, and seasonal outfits
For safety, we can’t accept used undergarments, items with stains, rips, or strong odors, or car seats, cribs, and other large baby gear.
Request Clothing
Joan's Closet is temporarily closed. We are not accepting donations or requests right now.
Questions About Joan’s Closet
Is there a cost for the clothing?
No. Joan’s Closet provides clothing at no cost. There are no income requirements or eligibility restrictions. If you need support, we are here to help.
Why does the request form ask about masculine, feminine, or gender-neutral styles?
Clothing doesn’t define identity. Families express themselves in many ways, and we want everyone, including non-binary parents, trans parents, and gender-diverse families, to feel included and respected. You may still receive a mix of patterns, colors, and styles within your preferences.
How often can I request clothing?
There are no strict limits, but we ask that families request only what they need so we can serve as many people as possible. As your baby grows, you’re welcome to reach out again.
How can I donate or volunteer?
We’ll share donation drop-off details when Joan’s Closet reopens. Please drop off items freshly laundered and sorted by size. Volunteers are always welcome to help sort, organize, and distribute clothing. Contact us to get involved.