Second Chances, Inc.

Second Chances puts donated clothing to work for people in Somerville, Cambridge and adjacent communities who are dealing with homelessness, poverty or crisis. The nonprofit works almost invisibly through existing service providers, including housing authorities, shelters and elder services, delivering free clothing, shoes and accessories where and when clients need them. Each year more than 1,300 people receive clothing this way, so they can feel confident and valued as they move forward.

Founded in 2003 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2005, Second Chances describes itself as the only program providing free clothing, shoes, accessories and gift cards to hundreds of homeless and lower-income Somerville and Cambridge residents each year. Donations are gathered from outdoor bins and clothing drives. Partners include the Somerville Housing Authority, Somerville Cambridge Elder Services, Vinfen, On The Rise and CASPAR/BayCove.

What to Know

• Textiles that clients cannot use are reused or recycled, and the program keeps more than 300,000 pounds a year out of landfills.
• More than 4,000 pairs of new socks and underwear are distributed annually.
• The organization published a Fall 2026 community report on its work.
• It works with more than 30 local nonprofits and service providers.