Free Store Wilkinsburg — Local services in Wilkinsburg

Wouldn't recommend coming here if you are low on funds and have a family to get things for, because they have a rule established that you can't get adult clothing for the opposite gender; "the person in question has to be present to get the clothing, and even then they are only allowed 2 clothing items" is basically what the elderly woman at the checkout line told us. If that was the case, then we should have been informed that upon entry. If they really would like to better assist the community, then I really think they need more organization in that store. For example, before they open the store up to the public they should do a walk-around/inventory check to see what they have to work with FIRST and then make signs/update people beforehand so there is no confusion, misunderstandings, or miscommunication.

I think another thing that may be helpful for organization purposes would be to have a clipboard and a piece of lined paper for people to "sign in". As the person is signing in, that would be a good time to ask the person "Have they been here before?" and if not, breifly explain how the store works and what their options are to choose from. The person can sign in with their name printed and allow the option for them to "opt in" to recieve e-mails, texts, or whatever to keep communication with the community about whatever. This would be another way to put the Braddock Free Store on the map for whatever is needed and to stay in business.

Nonetheless, it is still a decent store with kind people. I would still...

The store is currently only open on Saturdays.

Remember you may not come every week, eow to be fair. They have had some people take advantage and even steal from here in the past. Currently every other week, five items and a 15 min time limit are the constraints. Some items don't count, such as measuring spoons or books. Others may count as more than one.

Another thing to remember is that women may not get men's clothing and the reverse. This is to help men actually get clothing that they may need. However as men often will or can not shop for themselves, it may cause a difficulty. But I think that if there is a problem and the store was contacted early in the week they might be able to accommodate the situation. Yes, I do know some women cannot or will not shop for themselves. Also, I do not know the store's policy regarding transgender or cross dressing individuals.

If you think a difficulty may occur, I would check ahead of time, because you...

I was in there for less than 20 seconds and some old miserable lady with a stiff swoop in her nasty smelling hair put her hand in my face and told me to "stop right there" like she was a cop. Then told me that I'm not allowed in because it was donation day. I did not know that because I've never been there. But she gave me a little too much attitude for me just opening the door. Then all the other miserable old ladies in the back just watched...