Clothing Center

A peek into the layettes given to newborn babies. Layettes are distributed through Memorial Hospital and St. Joseph Health System.

The Christ Child Society’s Clothing Center in Mishawaka is unique in the Michiana area. Every year over 3,500 children in need receive new wardrobes, regardless of race, gender, or creed. This service is offered for children ranging in ages from birth through twelve years.

Over 1300 families received new clothes in 2015

Over 1300 families received new clothes in 2019

Clothing is distributed to from August until Early-December. The Clothing Center, located at 2366 Miracle Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 is open Wednesday mornings at 8:30. Numbers are distributed until 10am and select Sunday afternoons from 1pm to 1:45pm and select Thursday evenings from 5pm to 5:45 pm. Dedicated volunteers staff the Center. There are one paid employee (our administrative assistant) and no government funds are used to purchase the new clothing. Click here for the 2020 Christ Child Referral Calendar dates.

We have extended our open days! We will be open to hand out clothing in January 2021 for TWO DAYS only.

January 17, 2021 from noon to 1:00 pm
January 28, 2021 from 4:00 – 5:30 pm

Over 3500 children were kept warm in 2015

Over 3500 children were kept warm in 2019

Clients are assisted on a first come first serve basis, and must present a signed referral letter from one of the approved social service agencies in St. Joseph County. Click here for a 2020 Referral Agent List. They must also present an official photo ID (like a driver’s license) for the parent/guardian and birth certificates plus social security cards for any children listed on the referral form.

After an interview, parents receive a bag of new clothing for each child that includes: seven pairs of socks, seven pairs of underwear, a sweatshirt, a shirt (t-shirt or uniform), a pair of pants (jeans or uniform), new shoes, warm winter coat, a knitted hat, and a pair of mittens. Children who wear sizes four or smaller also receive pajamas and a stuffed bear.

An outfit of gently used clothing for play, or perhaps something to wear to church is also offered. Families qualify for this service once each year.