Clothed by Faith Receives $50,000 Inspire Change Grant from Houston Texans Foundation
In a heartwarming recognition of its ongoing efforts to support children and families in need, Clothed by Faith was recently awarded a $50,000 Inspire Change Grant by the Houston Texans Foundation. This generous grant will be used to expand and enhance the nonprofit's Closets for Schools program, which provides local students in need with immediate access to clothing. The funds will help establish a new clothing closet in an area school, as well as restock an existing closet, ensuring that students have the essentials they need to attend school with dignity.
The Houston Texans Foundation, which focuses on improving lives and strengthening communities throughout the Houston area, has awarded a total of $455,000 this year to 12 local nonprofits through its Inspire Change Grants. These grants are designed to support organizations that address pressing community needs, promote social equity, and provide essential services. Clothed by Faith was honored to be among the recipients, and the $50,000 award will be pivotal in helping the organization further its mission of providing new and gently used clothing to those in need.
“I am beyond thrilled and humbled by this recognition,” said Abi Fourie, founder of Clothed by Faith. “Eleven years ago, I told Audrey Hosie and Susanne Hewson that one day Clothed by Faith would grow so big it would be recognized by organizations like the Astros and the Houston Texans. Back then, we were sitting on trash bags of clothes outside my garage, trusting God to use us to make a difference. Today, that vision becomes reality as Clothed by Faith is honored by the Houston Texans! God is so good!”
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Clothed by Faith, which began in 2013 as a small grassroots initiative, has since grown into a vital community resource. The nonprofit serves more than 140,000 people across Greater Houston and has partnered with over 130 agencies and 27 school districts to help individuals and families facing hardship. Through its Closets for Schools program, Clothed by Faith currently operates clothing closets at 12 schools in the region, providing students with quick access to clothing when they need it most. In addition, the organization offers new socks, underwear, and shoes to children and adults in need, as well as clothing for foster families, those experiencing homelessness, and families facing financial crises.
“This moment is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the hard work of so many who have supported our mission over the years,” said Melinda Stephenson, Executive Director of Clothed by Faith. “We are so excited to be a part of this incredible milestone for CBF. Together, we are making a difference, and we are so grateful for what God is doing through this organization.”
The Inspire Change Grant is an important catalyst for Clothed by Faith’s continued growth and outreach. In 2023 alone, the organization distributed more than 290,000 shirts, 169,000 pairs of pants, and over 240,000 pairs of socks and underwear. Ninety-five percent of this work is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers who donate thousands of hours each year. Clothed by Faith’s success and growth have been fueled by community support, including volunteers, donors, and local partnerships.
Melinda Stephenson, Executive Director for Clothed by Faith (center), proudly celebrating the organization'sClothed by Faith encourages those interested in supporting the organization’s mission to get involved by volunteering, donating, or sharing their story. As the organization continues to expand its reach, particularly through its Closets for Schools program, the need for volunteers and donations remains critical. “Volunteers are an essential resource for Clothed by Faith. Without them, we are unable to fulfill our mission,” Stephenson added. “We are so grateful for their selfless commitment and for the ongoing support of our community partners.”
With the continued generosity of organizations like the Houston Texans Foundation, Clothed by Faith looks forward to serving even more families and individuals in need, ensuring that everyone in the community has access to the basic clothing essentials they need to thrive. To learn more about Clothed by Faith’s work, volunteer opportunities, or how to contribute, visit their website at clothedbyfaith.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
