Reentering the workforce after incarceration comes with many challenges — landing a job interview, building confidence, and adjusting to new expectations in professional settings. But for many returning citizens, one significant barrier comes before they ever step into an interview: the cost of professional attire.
When first beginning work, most people don’t have the savings to purchase a full professional wardrobe. A suit, dress shoes, shirts, and accessories can easily total hundreds of dollars, a major upfront investment. For individuals balancing transportation, housing needs, and legal fines or fees, purchasing business attire is simply out of reach.
However, how you show up matters. Professional clothing not only opens doors to job opportunities, it impacts confidence, first impressions, and career success. At Operation New Hope, we believe every person deserves the dignity of looking and feeling prepared as they take their next step forward.
That’s why we are deeply grateful for our partnership with Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet, a nonprofit organization that provides high-quality clothing free of charge to those who need them in Northeast Florida and beyond.
Chandler’s Hope was founded by Michele Holbrook in honor of her son, Chandler Cook, who tragically lost his life to addiction in 2020. Inspired by Chandler’s generous spirit, the organization seeks to carry on his legacy of kindness.
Their mission is clear:
“We seek to provide dignity and hope to the homeless and those in need by providing quality clothing free of charge and showing unconditional love.”
Through mobile clothing distribution, community outreach, and emergency support, Chandler’s Hope serves individuals across Northeast Florida — ensuring that no one has to choose between essentials and the dignity of dressing professionally.
Since July 2025, the Chandler’s Hope team has visited our Jacksonville office each month with their accessible mobile trailer to support clients enrolled in the Ready4Work program. At any given time, Jacksonville serves around 60 participants across Weeks 1–3 of the program, each preparing for employment and ready to take the next step in their careers.
With the help of dedicated volunteers, clients have the opportunity to select 2–4 complete professional outfits — entirely free of charge. These include:
✔ Shoes
✔ Blazers and jackets
✔ Slacks and skirts
✔ Button-downs and blouses
✔ Sweaters and tops
✔ Bags, jewelry, and accessories
All items are new or like-new and carefully curated to help clients feel their best.
Clients often express how meaningful this experience is — not only because they receive professional attire, but because they feel seen, supported, and set up for success.
Walking into a job interview dressed professionally doesn’t just change how an employer sees you — it changes how you see yourself.
Thanks to Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet, our clients are equipped with the confidence they need to pursue opportunity and thrive long after Ready4Work graduation.
Operation New Hope extends a heartfelt thank you to Chandler’s Hope Clothing Closet, their caring volunteers, and the incredible community members who make this initiative possible. Your generosity directly contributes to stronger families, safer communities, and brighter futures.
