More than 200 men staying at the Pacific Garden Mission in South Loop received new winter clothes through “I am a Gentleman,” aimed at helping them re-enter the workforce.
“Right now I’m looking for a better job, and I know something will come when God provides it,” said 29-year-old Terry Crandall.
Crandall’s been staying at the Pacific Garden Mission on-and-off for a few years.
“Obviously a place to lay my head is great, I’m not out in the cold all night which that’s what I was doing before,” he said.
Crandall and nearly 200 other men staying at Pacific Garden Mission are working to re-establish themselves and get on a new path. And this holiday season local nonprofit ‘I Am A Gentleman’ is lending a helping hand and a winter wardrobe.
“Often times men who are staying at the mission feel like they’re forgotten about and lost, and need some direction,” said ‘I Am A Gentleman’ founder Jermaine Anderson. “So we wanted to make sure we provide them with tools and resources not only to help them feel good but look good as well.”
His organization mentors and equips men with the skills and the style to confidently build their best lives.
Residents were gifted sweaters, dress shirts, dress shoes, cologne and other clothing necessities.
“It’s just dignity, it shows personal dignity,” said Pacific Garden Mission President Phil Kwiatkowski. “I look different, I feel good about myself, I can go out there and meet people.”
Crandall said the display of kindness and the new clothes will help him work towards a new life.
“It will probably boost my confidence to get a job for sure,” he said.
Learn more about the mission and I Am A Gentleman on the group’s website.
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