When victims of sexual assault visit medical centers or police stations after being attacked, their clothes are often confiscated for DNA evidence, leaving already vulnerable people with nothing but a hospital gown and shoes.
In California, the Grateful Garment Project exists to restore a level of comfort and dignity in the immediate aftermath of these traumatic events.
The nonprofit has a closet full of donated clothing, toiletries, snacks, and other essentials that it gives to clients in their time of need.
Chanel Miller, author of the book “Know My Name,” and a survivor of campus assault, benefited from the resources of GGP after she was attacked at Stanford University.
She said she still has the sweatshirt she was given as a reminder that “there is good in the world.”
“Even in your darkest, worst moments, there are people who are looking out for you,” she told San José Spotlight.
The person behind GGP is Lisa Blanchard, who initially created the program as an undergraduate project in 2010.
Now, she works with 115 partner agencies, including hospitals, shelters, law enforcement, and other community organizations, serving an estimated 35-45 victims statewide every single day.
Between 2023 and 2024 alone, GGP donated more than 39,000 items to 34,000 survivors.
In addition to situations like Miller’s, the GGP also provides clothing for victims testifying in court, and comfort items like stuffed animals, coloring books, and pillows and blankets to children who are victims of human trafficking.
“It was like the universe was knocking at my door,” Blanchard told San José Spotlight. “I knew beyond the class project I was going to continue to do this because the work is so important.”
The work is important beyond the immediate assistance. For a program coordinator on staff, Dakini Perkins, it’s healing for her, too. As a victim of child sexual abuse, she takes great care in every little package.
“When I’m working with the volunteers … and we’re packing a box to send out to an agency,” she told San José Spotlight, “I say, ‘Rub a little love in it when you’re folding those clothes. They’re going to feel it.’”
The tags on each item reflect this sentiment, reading: “To: you,” and “From: Somebody who cares.”
And it’s clear: They do.
“We believe everyone who experiences sexual violence deserves comfort and dignity during their journey toward healing,” a video for the nonprofit shares.
“While the recipients of your generosity may never know your name, your impact on their lives is immeasurable, and they will be eternally grateful to have had some comfort during this crisis.”
Those interested in supporting the Grateful Garment Project can donate online or through the organization’s wishlist.
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A version of this article was originally published in The 2025 Fashion Edition of the Goodnewspaper.
Header image by Ron Lach/Pexels
