Drazen - stock.adobe.com
Close-up of woman sorting clothes while packing donation boxes f
It’s 2025 now, but as we reflect on the highs of 2024, it’s impossible not to feel the pulse of something special that was set into motion at the heart of Fort Worth. The Fort Worth Community Collaborative (FWCC) pulled off a year for the books — one that reshaped lives, and forever altered the course of sustainability in a city brimming with heart.
The numbers tell the story of a dream realized: 7,863 pounds of clothing. 847 families. And a staggering 9,500 pounds of textiles kept out of landfills. But it’s not just about the pounds or the clothes. It’s about something deeper — the ripple effect that began with a simple but powerful idea: to connect people in need with essential clothing, while also reducing textile waste. A mission to weave together accessibility, sustainability, and community into something tangible.
Kelly Warner, executive director of the FWCC, was there in the middle of it all, reflecting on the achievements that marked 2024. “Our mission has always been to bridge the gap between sustainability and accessibility. These numbers are a testament to the collective power of our community.”
The true magic of FWCC lies in the Community Closet. It's not just a place — it’s a sanctuary. It’s where families come to shop for free, to take what they need without judgment, and to feel the dignity that comes from having access to quality clothing. And that’s something you can’t measure by pounds or hours. Speaking of hours, 178.75 volunteer hours were donated by the kind of people who make this city so vibrant.
The ripple effect didn’t just stop at clothing either. FWCC helped families redirect $98,051 into other essential needs. That’s $98,051 that stayed with the families that needed it the most, helping with rent, food, healthcare, and more. FWCC’s model didn’t just provide clothes — it gave families the breathing room to prioritize their own futures.
2024 was a year of transformation. And looking ahead to the future, FWCC remains steadfast in its commitment to creating lasting change through sustainability and community. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about what we give—it’s about what we build together.
“We’re building a stronger, more sustainable Fort Worth for future generations,” Warner added, a sentiment that echoed through every volunteer shift, every donation drop-off, and every thank-you note handed out. “We couldn’t have reached this point without the tireless efforts of our volunteers, donors, and partners. This success belongs to everyone who played a role.”
