Second Chances, Inc.

Second Chances is a Cambridge nonprofit that collects donated clothing, shoes and accessories and gets them to people experiencing poverty, crisis and housing instability in Cambridge, Somerville and nearby communities. It delivers free clothing to more than 1,300 people a year, working almost invisibly through over 30 local nonprofits and service providers, so clients receive what they need where they already get help. Items that cannot be used locally are reused or recycled.

The organization started its work in 2003 and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in March 2005. Its two goals go hand in hand: helping neighbors feel confident and valued as they take steps toward brighter futures, and keeping apparel out of local landfills. Donations come in through clothing drives and outdoor donation bins, and more than 60 companies have hosted drives. Consistent partners include Cambridge Health Alliance, Transition House, Respond and the Somerville Homeless Coalition.

What to Know

• Second Chances reuses and recycles more than 300,000 pounds of clothing, shoes and accessories each year.
• It provides more than 4,000 pairs of new socks and underwear annually.
• Free gift cards are provided along with clothing, shoes and accessories.
• After its first Earth Month Clothing Swap, another is planned for April 2027.