The Phyllis Zumkehr County Clothing Center
Our mission is to provide free, gently-used clothing and other personal and household items to families and individuals in need—all while reducing waste within the community and providing a positive experience for volunteers.
Expanding Services to Meet Community Needs
Over thirty years ago, the County Clothing Center was established as a grassroots effort to meet a growing need among low-income families in Portage County – free clothing. With the help of over 75 volunteers and 12 local churches, members worked to turn this need into a reliable community resource. Once a month, volunteers held a free clothing distribution in the Fellowship Hall of Kent United Methodist Church, where they went from helping dozens of shoppers to hundreds.
Today, the County Clothing Center operates out of a permanent location where, thanks to a steady stream of donations and volunteers, a large variety of clothes in all sizes, colors, and styles are available for free to whoever needs them. We do not accept furniture at the Center, but we do have a furniture referral program.
The Legacy of Phyllis Zumkehr
The Portage County Clothing Center was named in memory of Phyllis Zumkehr. Survived by her husband, Charlie, the family has made significant contributions to establish and run the center. After her death, Mr. Zumkehr felt the organization represented a meaningful way to celebrate the memory of her life and supported for a number of years. Today, thanks to community donations and support, our center continues to grow and serve as many as possible.
Who We Serve
We serve individuals and families across Portage County who are in need of clothing or furniture for their homes. There are no restrictions to who can shop here, there is no cost for any of the items, and no one has to demonstrate need.
During your shopping trip, your privacy will be honored, and you will be treated with dignity and respect. Throughout the year, formal attire, wedding dresses, and prom dresses are available through our special events room by appointment. We are also doing our part for the environment by keeping thousands of pounds of clothing and household goods out of landfills.
Contact the County Clothing Center
3377 ST RT 59, Ravenna, Ohio 44266
Shopping Hours:
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 10:00am—1:00pm
Tuesdays: 5:00pm—7:00pm
Donations are accepted Monday—Friday
Appointments and walk-ins are welcomed
Shopping Procedures
Our community can shop twice a month. Shoppers are requested to bring a photo ID for registration.
Donate to the County Clothing Center
We are always accepting gently used or new clothing. The County Clothing Center mainly relies on donations and volunteers and has limited funding for operational costs. If you would like to support our mission so we can continue to help those in need, please consider making a contribution.