ELLSWORTH — A nonprofit that provides free clothing to those in need is in desperate need itself.

“We’re in a dilemma,” said Clothes Closet Manager Bonnie Moretto. “We have to move.”

The clothing ministry must be out of its present location at 416 High St. by the end of the month.

Moretto is scouting for new space, but there is a major hurdle in the search — the volunteer-run organization cannot afford to pay rent.

The Clothes Closet was given free use of its present location next to Associated Builders until the 1,600-square-foot space was rented. Now that a new tenant is moving in, the Clothes Closet needs a new, more permanent home.

“We were very fortunate to be there as long as we were,” Moretto said. “We expected to be there three months and we were there for eight.”

The Clothes Closet is set up like a thrift store, except there are no price tags.

Area residents donate gently used clothes and items for seniors and babies. “Customers” pick out what they need. Donations are accepted, but not expected.

The Clothes Closet takes in $15 to $40 in cash donations each weekend, which is used to cover insurance costs.

The organization has been open Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

During those eight hours, between 100 and 150 people visited during the winter.

Numbers are higher now and the actual number of people served is even greater, Moretto said. People often come in to pick things up for family members.

“We’re serving a big need in the community,” Moretto said. “Sometimes they have to make the choice between clothing and food or electricity or rent.”

Anyone with information about available space can contact Moretto at 460-1576.

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