At St. Mary’s Health System our mission to provide healing care for the whole person in service to all in our communities means more than treating injuries or illnesses. It means meeting people where they are, especially in moments of struggle or crisis. That belief is what inspired Jamie Cormier, clinical nurse coordinator in the Behavioral Emergency department, and Kate Connor, director of Orthopedics and Physiatry, to create a clothing closet for patients.

“When I began working at St. Mary’s there was a small area in the Emergency Room with a few donated clothing items for patients,” explained Jamie. “Over time I began stocking a cabinet in my office with more inventory. Soon I realized efforts were being made in different areas of the hospital. This inspired me to create one central clothing closet. When Kate heard about it she jumped in to help sort and organize inventory and make the closet into something truly special.”

The impact of the closet is immediate. Its inventory of new and gently used items including sweatpants, t-shirts, socks, underwear, shoes, jackets and personal care items is always available.

“It is simple. We live our mission and values by treating everyone with respect and dignity and ensuring their basic needs are met,” said Cormier. “The Clothing Closet and other mission programs are acts of kindness. They prove to our patients that we care and that they matter.”

The closet is also available to staff members and their families. It is currently stocked with lots of women’s clothing but is in need of men’s clothes. If you have questions or would like to make a donation please reach out to Jamie at jamiecormier@stmarysmaine.com