Throughout the month of July, Men's Wearhouse locations throughout the country will be hosting the company's fifth annual National Suit Drive as part of a consolidated effort to get men an opportunity to look their best as they look to be join the ranks of the employed.
The initiative is the country's largest collection of gently used business attire for men, as men are encouraged to donate their unwanted businesswear to a fresh start to millions of disadvantaged workers. In 2012, the hope for the more than 900 Men's Wearhouse and Men's Wearhouse and Tux stores is to collectively gather 110,000 items and distribute them to about 200 non-profit organizations nationwide that help men and women re-enter the job market through resume-building workshops, interview preparation and skills-training programs.
Despite 3.5 million jobs currently available, 42.8 percent of unemployed Americans have been jobless for at least 27 weeks, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Companies are hiring, yet wavering optimism leaves unemployed Americans hesitant. The National Suit Drive helps rebuild their confidence.
Those who want to help out can go to any of the company's stores and donate gently used men's suits, shirts, jackets, ties, belts and shoes. Women's professional clothing items are accepted as well. This year, dress sheos and big-and-tall business attire are in particular high demand.
For every suit donated, Men's Wearhouse will give two business ties to the cause. As a thank you, donors will receive a coupon for 50 percent off the regular price of all retail items (excluding shoes and Everyday Low Price items) for their next purchase, as well as a tax receipt.
People can also continue to raise awareness by visiting the Men's Wearhouse Facebook page to share images and videos or to track donations with a live donations counter. They can also follow the conversation on Twitter @MensWearhouse for real-time updates with #giveasuit. For every National Suit Drive mention on Facebook and Twitter, the company will contribute $1 (up to $25,000) to the cause.
