Founded in 2016 by Caitlin Adler, Project Ropa was born out of a realization that there was a significant gap in services for people experiencing homelessness. It became evident to Caitlin that access to clean clothes that fit well and appealed to the individual was severely limited for this vulnerable population. Determined to make a difference, she set out to provide a solution that would empower lives and restore a sense of dignity.

Recognizing the importance of personal hygiene alongside clean clothing, Project Ropa forged partnerships with mobile shower providers. This allowed individuals to not only receive a fresh set of clothes but also a hot shower, experiencing a complete refresh. And because both services were mobile, they could reach those in need in locations that were more convenient for them.

In its early days, Project Ropa was a one-person show, with Caitlin loading her personal vehicle with a clothing rack and a stockpile of new and gently used men’s and women’s clothing and shoes. She would then set up for service next to a mobile shower provider.

In 2019, Project Ropa customized a Ford transit van into a mobile walk-in clothing closet and switched from being a volunteer-run initiative to a growing nonprofit with a four-person staff. But the mission has remained the same: to restore dignity to homeless and low-income individuals and families one article of clothing at a time.