Fashion for empowerment: Cabi's Love Local event

In a heartwarming act of community support, the Cabi Foundation held its annual "Love Local" event in Joplin, updating the wardrobes of 40 clients from the Lafayette House, a local shelter aiding victims of domestic abuse. More than 400 high-quality clothing items were provided free of charge, giving these women the opportunity to outfit themselves for various aspects of their new beginnings, including job interviews and court appearances.

Chelsea Conley, Development Director at the Lafayette House, expressed her enthusiasm about the initiative. “All of the items that the ladies will be taking home with them today are all from the Cabi line. They're getting paired with a Cabi stylist to get a brand-new wardrobe of items that they're able to wear to court, a job interview, or just out in their daily lives so they feel good about the items that are in their closet,” said Conley.

This marks the second consecutive year the Cabi Foundation has chosen to support the Lafayette House clients. Stephanie DeTar, a Cabi stylist involved in the event, reflected on the recurring positive impact: “A year ago, we started our Love Local event, which we can apply for. And this is now our second time that we have been able to do it for the Lafayette House.”

The donation goes beyond simple clothing; clients also received accessories and other thoughtful gifts. “So inside the bags, we have a Cabi scarf, some Cabi jewelry, and Bell joy was kind enough to donate some necklaces. Then we've got toothpaste and toothbrushes from Joplin Dentistry, and makeup wipes, just a little extra to love on them and for the ladies to take home for Mother’s Day,” DeTar added.

The impact of these donations extends past the tangible items. Conley highlighted the emotional boost the event provided last year, noting the visible joy and ongoing use of the clothes by the clients. "Some of our clients, last year when they left, they just were beaming. And then we would see them wear their Cabi outfits after they came to the event, and it was so great. So we were really excited to be able to offer this for them again this year,” Conley shared.

The Cabi stylists feel the event is mutually enriching. “Everyone says it’s so awesome what you’re doing for these women. But the amazing thing is, it’s blessing us too,” said DeTar, highlighting the reciprocal joy and satisfaction derived from helping others.

The event serves as a powerful reminder of the positive influence fashion can have on self-esteem and recovery, providing these women not just with new clothes, but with renewed hope and dignity.

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