Our Impact

Since 2005, Second Chances has delivered free, empowering clothing to more than 9,200 neighbors, distributed 23,000+ pairs of new socks and underwear, and reused and recycled more than 3,750,000 pounds of clothing and textiles. Each year, working closely with 30 local programs and organizations, we’re supporting 1,500+ people who are experiencing housing instability, poverty, and other challenges so they feel empowered and ready to tackle major challenges like accessing housing, employment, and healthcare.

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Testimonials

Our partners and their clients share appreciation for our work and community.

“Dear Second Chances,
You do not know me but I wanted to thank you for the beautiful clothes I received through Second Chances! I was so excited about the clothing and when I looked through everything, I was absolutely amazed at all the wonderful things. I couldn’t have done a better job picking things out myself! Everything I asked for and more was included and I am so thrilled to have such a wonderful wardrobe! I wish there were better words than thank you!”

— Beth C.

“I cannot tell you how much you have helped the women I have worked with over the last couple of years, and how important what you do is for their self-esteem. Many of my clients have begun their transformation with your clothing. It is impressive to watch. You have a gift.”

—Susan, Client Advocate & Stabilization Support Coordinator, Transition House

“We have hosted a Second Chances clothing collection bin at the Whole Foods Market River Street location in Cambridge, Massachusetts for more than five years. As the former Community Relations Director for Whole Foods Market, I could not have asked for a better partner than Second Chances and founder Andrea Shapiro.

Second Chances always maintained their bin extremely well with frequent pickups, and I never had to worry about overflow. Our customers in Cambridge very much appreciated that Whole Foods supported a local charity, but even more so appreciated the opportunity to donate their gently worn clothing knowing that it would be repurposed to those in need in our own community.

Andrea and the Second Chances team were always very gracious about including Whole Foods Market in their marketing and public relations endeavors via their newsletter and website even though we never asked for it.

Andrea also is an amazing idea person and constantly looking for winwin opportunities. She suggested hosting clothing drives for our team members and when we did, it was so well received that our team members thanked our leadership for the opportunity to give back. I recommend to any business looking for a turnkey solution to give back to the community they serve, to partner with Second Chances.”

—David Remillard, Former Marketing and Community Relations Director, Whole Foods Market

Our Accomplishments

With the help of thousands of colleagues, friends, and community members, since 2005 Second Chances has:

Supported more than 9,200 women, men, and children with free, empowering clothing, shoes, accessories, and gift cards through the local programs and organizations where they’re already receiving services. Distributed more than 23,000 pairs of new socks and underwear.

Reused and recycled more than 3,750,000 pounds of clothing and more donated by generous community members.

Co-sponsored more than 1,150 clothing drives with businesses, institutions, congregations, and large residential developments, building community, increasing local giving, and creating awareness about textile reuse and recycling.

Won an award for our innovative use of technology to reach even more partners, donors, and beneficiaries.

Been honored by our community partners and local businesses for the positive impact of our work in our community.

And so much more!

Learn more about the positive impact we’ve had together! View our online 2025 Community Report here »

Community Commitment and Values

You can trust us to:

  • Focus on serving residents of Somerville, Cambridge, and nearby communities;
  • Find the best possible use for the donations we receive;
  • Get clothing, shoes, and accessories to community members who need them the most by working with local provider partners;
  • Maintain our donation bins and the areas surrounding them;
  • Be transparent in our practices and accountable to our donors, partners, and supporters;
  • Use business practices that reduce the impact of our operations on our planet.