ANNUAL CAPITOL CLOTHING DRIVE SUPPORTS WOMEN ENTERING THE WORKFORCE

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – An annual tradition continued at the State Capitol this week, as members of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature presented donations to the YWCA Oʻahu “Dress for Success” program. The donations were collected through a clothing drive in which legislators, staff, and community members contributed new or gently used professional attire to support women entering or reentering the workforce.

This year’s drive collected more than 100 bags of donations, including professional clothing, blazers, dresses, shoes, handbags, accessories, and new undergarments. These items will help support women as they begin new chapters in their lives, including those overcoming challenges such as poverty, homelessness, and incarceration.

The annual effort at the Capitol is organized by the Office of Representative Gregg Takayama (House District 34 – Pearl City, Waiau, Pacific Palisades) and the Office of Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura (Senate District 2 – Puna) in support of YWCA Oʻahu’s mission to empower women through economic advancement.

“We set a new record for donations this year, made possible by the strong support from our colleagues and the community,” said Representative Takayama. “These contributions will help empower women as they prepare for the next stage of independence in their lives, whether that means applying for a job, entering the workforce, or building confidence in how they present themselves.”

“We are thrilled with the record number of donations. Now more than ever, with rising prices, these new or gently used clothes will be able to clothe women in need of second chances,” said Senator San Buenaventura.  

For more than 20 years, Dress for Success Honolulu has supported women at every stage of their employment journey through professional attire, career coaching, and a strong network of support. The program provides one-on-one interview styling and continued wardrobe support after employment, along with career resources such as resume development and coaching.

For more information on Dress for Success Honolulu, visit www.ywcaoahu.org/dress-for-success-honolulu.