The historic Waltham Clothing Exchange is likely to close for good next May, at the end of its 68th year.  According to the current directors, Joel and Susan Weddig, this long-term project of First Parish UU in Waltham, as a consignment thrift shop, supports local social justice and preservation of the  environment by providing a means to pass on good used items from those who no longer need them to those that can use and appreciate them.  With a wide variety of cultural, economic, ethnic, and family backgrounds, the customers are a diverse group representative of Waltham citizens. 

Over the 68 years, the Waltham Clothing Exchange volunteer staff, consisting of First Parish members and friends, have worked with thousands of consignors and shoppers.  Many of the volunteers started out as customers and have helped out for years.  

Given the continuing popularity of thrift shopping, there’s been a strong surge in consignors and customers over the past decade.  It has become overwhelming at times for the volunteer staff and the directors.

Because of this success, working at the Clothing Exchange has become more a chore than the pleasure it has been.   Because of this, and the aging out of the directors and most volunteers, Joel and Susan are planning to shut down the Clothing Exchange at the end of the spring season, in May.

Efforts are being made to find more volunteers and potential directors before the Spring Season begins February 10.  A listing has been posted at Idealist.org. Volunteer and/or Lead Person, Waltham Clothing Exhange Thrift Shop - Idealist

The First Parish congregation is supporting this effort by creating a special service, open to the public, on Sunday October 26 at 10:30 am, 50 Church Street.  Remembering the monthly theme of Compassion, there will be personal testimonies expressing love of the Clothing Exchange and its missions.  And a fashion show.  And a show and tell on how it operates.  And of course, what it has accomplished for the Waltham Community.

The Waltham Clothing Exchange has been a historical forerunner to the present community support efforts of First Parish like the Jones Partnership Fund, which was a featured service last month.

Following the service, the Waltham Clothing Exchange will be opened from 11:45 to 1:30.

For those interested in volunteering, they can call the Waltham Clothing Exchange number  781-330-0389 and leave a message.  Or email to [email protected].  More information can be found at:

https://walthamuu.org/community/waltham-clothing-exchange/

Located in three rooms and the corridor on the lower level of the First Parish in Waltham (50 Church St.), there are 16 racks of clothing (for all ages and sizes), blankets and linens.  Hanging on the walls are purses and bags in all sizes, as well as pictures and art.  There are toys and games and puzzles, and stuffed toy critters.  Plenty of shelf space holds shoes, all types of housewares (lamps, cutlery, plates, cookware, glasses, cups, etc), small appliances, picture frames, books, movies, toys, jewelry, collectibles and knick knacks.  Seasonal and holiday items also are sold.

The Waltham Clothing Exchange is open only on Tuesdays, from 10 to 4:30, 50 Church Street (the white steepled church).  Its entrance is at the rear of the lower parking lot off School Street.