An Introduction to Cheryl’s Kloset
Cheryl’s Kloset was founded upon a legacy and is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Mrs. Cheryl King.
Mrs. King took great pride in her appearance and was known for her style and fashion sense. Beyond her outward elegance, she was generous with her time and deeply committed to helping others. She passed away suddenly at a young age due to a treatable medical condition, and her loss was deeply felt by her loved ones and the community she so faithfully served.
In keeping with her spirit of generosity, all of her professional attire was donated to a program in Washington, D.C., to support women seeking to enter or reenter the workforce. The success of what became known as the “gift of Cheryl” sparked a community-wide donation drive that led to the creation of a permanent clothes closet.
Her story later received national attention when it was featured on the ABC News program 20/20, amplifying awareness and strengthening the community’s commitment to continue her legacy.
As requests for assistance expanded beyond clothing, Cheryl’s Kloset grew into a broader community resource. What began as a clothes closet evolved into a place of care providing essential items, trusted referrals, and meaningful connections to supportive services.
Today, Cheryl’s Kloset operates as a community resource of Veterans on the Rise, serving individuals and families throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area who are experiencing financial hardship or crisis. Our mission is rooted in dignity, compassion, and practical support, meeting immediate needs while helping families build long-term opportunity and stability.
Cheryl’s legacy lives on through every gift given and every life touched. Furthering Cheryl’s Kloset mission is truly a labor of love.
What We Provide
Through the combined efforts of Veterans on the Rise and committed community partners, Cheryl’s Kloset provides consistent distributions and organized giveaway events designed to meet essential needs.
· Clothing for adults and children
· Winter coats and cold-weather gear
· Hygiene and personal care items
· Household and small furnishings
· School supplies and childcare products
· Seasonal assistance and targeted distributions
· Referrals and linkage to additional supportive services
· Emergency support based on availability
Beyond material assistance, Cheryl’s Kloset connects individuals and families to community-based resources that promote long-term stability, education, and self-sufficiency. All services are provided with respect, discretion, and a people-first approach.
Specialized Programs
Angel Tree Program
One of Cheryl’s Kloset’s signature initiatives, the Angel Tree Program, has served the community for more than two decades.
Each holiday season, the program supports children ages 0 to 17 by providing:
· Holiday gifts
· Winter coats and clothing
· Essential household and personal care items
Through the Angel Tree Program, individuals, families, and organizations are able to directly support children in need while helping families experience relief, dignity, and stability during the holiday season.
Ryan’s Promise
An anti-bullying initiative focused on prevention, empowerment, and youth leadership, encouraging young people to speak up, stand up, and foster inclusive environments through awareness, education, and peer-driven support.
Ryan’s Hope
A mentorship and community engagement initiative offering school visits, youth-led events, and public awareness efforts designed to support emotional wellness and build confidence among young people.
Braxton’s Korner
A dedicated space within Cheryl’s Kloset for babies and toddlers, providing clothing, blankets, bottles, diapers, and other essential items to support new parents and caregivers.
Winter Support & Seasonal Initiatives
During colder months and critical times of need, Cheryl’s Kloset coordinates seasonal initiatives focused on safety, warmth, and well-being. These efforts include winter coat drives, cold weather distributions, back-to-school support, and other targeted outreach efforts based on community needs.
Seasonal initiatives vary throughout the year depending on available resources and emerging needs within the community.
Community Engagement and Support
· Community events and outreach initiatives
· Life skills and client-centered presentations
· Job training and workforce readiness support
· Youth enrichment programming
· Scholarship opportunities
Meeting immediate needs is the first step. Building long-term stability is the goal.
Who We Serve
Cheryl’s Kloset serves individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, housing instability, or unexpected life challenges. Priority is given to veterans, children, and families in vulnerable situations.
Availability of items and services may vary based on inventory and program capacity.
Appointments & Referrals
Appointments with Cheryl’s Kloset are by referral only. Individuals seeking assistance are encouraged to contact our team to learn more about eligibility, availability, and referral options. Periodically, Cheryl’s Kloset hosts events where referrals may not be required.
Request Support
If you or your family are in need of assistance, we encourage you to reach out. Cheryl’s Kloset is committed to providing support in a respectful and compassionate manner whenever resources are available.
Contact Information
Phone: (202) 940-7284
Email: ckloset@vetsontherise.org
Location: 11016 51st St. NE, #1A, Washington, DC 20019
