The organization currently serves approximately 2,000 individuals annually. Each member of the families who are referred to Ruth’s House are eligible, four times per year, to receive the following: a $50 clothing voucher to purchase seasonally appropriate clothing, new underwear and socks, bras, and toiletries. Ruth’s House also operates an “Elderly Coat Program”. Any person 50 years of age or older who is eligible receives a new or gently used winter coat, hat, scarf and gloves. Eligibility requirements include the following: be over 50 years of age and be receiving benefits from one of the following programs: Mass Health, SSI, Food Stamps, Social Security Disability, Nutrition Programs or Fuel Assistance. Senior individuals also qualify to receive a $50 voucher to fulfill their other clothing needs. Additionally, on the day of their appointment clients may purchase any household items, from Ruth’s House Thrift Shop at a 20% discount. Recognizing that not only those who are receiving public assistance are in need, “The Thrift Shop” at Ruth’s House is open to anyone who enters to shop for clothes, furniture, and other household items at low prices.

Available donated toiletries are also offered, as needed. All donated clothing goes to our Receiver through the warehouse, where it is inspected for quality, hang, price, and display the clothing in the Thrift Shop where it becomes available to Ruth’s House clients and customers.

At least 30% of our clothing vouchers are provided to children of low income families. Children who receive clothing vouchers are invited to choose 2 free books and can sign up for our reading program where they can earn a $5 gift card to Ruth’s House. When a client family member checks in for their clothing voucher appointment, information about other wraparound, or supplemental, services such as food stamps, pantries, heating assistance, and communal meals are made available to them.