Free Clothing Resources for Trans Folks
Editor's note: This post was originally published in February 2023 and has been completely revamped and updated for more comprehensiveness.
For trans folks, clothing is not just a matter of fashion or personal expression: it can also be a vital tool for affirming our gender identity. However, acquiring gender-affirming clothing can be a significant financial burden. That's why free clothing donation or swap programs are so crucial for our community, especially those of us who cannot otherwise afford garments.
At this time, Point of Pride does not offer free clothing outside of our free chest binder and free femme shapewear programs. Below, we've provided a list of other organizations and projects that do. (Their inclusion in this list does not represent an endorsement by Point of Pride.)
Australia
United Kingdom
- LGBTQ+ Clothes Swap (Multiple, mostly UK)
United States
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Someone Cares Inc. of Atlanta (Also a health and wellness provider in addition to providing free clothing)
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Safe Combinations (Pay what you can thrift store)
- Maryland
- Baltimore: Paul's Place (Not trans specific, but inclusive)
- Dreams and Visions (Pay what you can thrift store)
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Stillwater: Valley Outreach StyleXchange (Both free and thrift clothing)
- Twin Cities Pride Rainbow Wardrobe
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Cincinnati: Transform Cincy (Ages 6-25 only)
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Austin: ATX Clothing Swaps (While not trans-specific, this appears to be inclusive)
- Houston (Katy): First Christian Church - Transparent Closet
- Virginia
- Washington
Online only
- Clothing and Transitional Item Exchange for Transgender People
- Transgender Clothing Exchange
- Change of Clothes, Inc.
Know of a resource that should be included here? Please contact us!
Other tips for acquiring free clothing
If you need free clothing, here are some tips to help you navigate and find resources:
- Research Local Resources: Start by looking for local LGBTQ+ centers, community centers, and non-profits that may offer clothing programs. The CenterLink directory of LGBTQ+ centers is a great place to start your research and contact a center near you. Attend local support group meetings that may have information on available resources.
- Join Online Communities: Online groups, especially on social media like Facebook, can connect you with individuals offering free clothing in your area. Search for "clothing exchange" or "clothing swap."
- Attend Clothing Swaps: Look for in-person clothing swap events in your area. These events are often advertised on community bulletin boards and local LGBTQ+ organization websites.
- Check Thrift Stores: While not always free, many thrift stores offer extremely low-cost clothing and may have discount days or special programs.
- Network with Others: Reach out to friends, family, and other community members who may have clothing to donate or know of resources.
- Utilize University Resources: If you are a student or live near a university, check if they have a gender-affirming clothing closet or similar programs.
- Be Persistent and Patient: Finding the right resources can take time. Keep checking back with organizations and online groups, as new opportunities for clothing swaps and donations can arise all the time.
Written by Point of Pride
Point of Pride provides financial aid and direct support to trans folks in need of health and wellness care.
