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The Genieve Shelter last weekend celebrated the grand opening of its relocated clothing closet at Celebration Christian Church.

The shelter serves Suffolk and surrounding communities by helping victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Services, depending on the client’s needs, include an emergency shelter, legal aid, children’s programs, food pantry and other resources to help clients find safety and get back on their feet.

“Not all of our clients need shelter, but all of them need support,” said Amy Henry, case manager at The Genieve Shelter.

The clothing closet was previously located at the shelter, whose location is not disclosed for safety reasons. That location was able to help many clients, but moving it to the church makes it easier for people to get the help they need.

“This is to better serve all clients in our shelter and the community,” said Amy Henry. “It’s been a great opportunity to work together with the church staff and bring it to fruition.”

Celebration Christian Church not only opened its doors to house the clothing closet but is also providing volunteers to help the clients who need it. The closet has clothes, jackets and shoes for clients and their children.

The Genieve Shelter accepts donations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is always looking for new or gently used clothing, but at the moment needs children’s clothes the most.

“We are looking to partner with other churches too to help with other resources like a food pantry,” said Henry. “We are always open to suggestions and partners to better serve our community.”

The Genieve Shelter has also partnered with an organization called Home to help provide furniture for clients. Home helps with picking up, storing and delivery that the shelter does not have the resources for currently. Helping clients furnish their new living space gives them one less thing to worry about as they start their new life.

Those interested in partnering or donating to The Genieve Shelter can call the office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and from 9 to 2 p.m. on Fridays at 57-925-4365. In addition, anyone experiencing domestic violence can also call their after-hour helpline at 1-800-969-4673.