YWCA Yakima opened Persimmon Boutique in October 2016. Persimmon Boutique is a small thrift store where anyone in the community can come and purchase new and gently used clothing, accessories and home décor – with all proceeds going toward the programs and services offered by YWCA.
Persimmon Boutique was created to allow us to employ survivors of domestic violence who often have poor or no work history due to their abuser not allowing employment outside the home or working to get the survivor fired once employment is obtained. With Persimmon Boutique, we give survivors of domestic violence job training and other life skills that allow them to be more competitive applicants for other open jobs in the community.
YWCA Yakima had previously operated our Working Woman’s Wardrobe out of the basement of our facility, but when we opened Persimmon Boutique it gave the women in that program a chance to have a real shopping experience. Low income women who need clothing to enter or re-enter the workplace can come to Persimmon Boutique to have a shopping experience. Every woman who qualifies for the Working Woman’s Wardrobe can pick out five full outfits (complete with accessories, purses, shoes).
Over the course of one year, I have had the opportunity to utilize the services provided by Persimmon Boutique twice. During this time I was searching for a job and was in great need for work appropriate clothing. I am very appreciative to the staff that provided professional, friendly and helpful service while I was shopping.
I am grateful to the YWCA for providing such amazing and valuable services. Without these services, many women, including myself, would possibly lose opportunities to better themselves and their lives. I am grateful to the volunteers and donors as the clothes I received were of a very high quality and beautiful. Thank you.
In 2017, we clothed 319 women and teens with over $50,000 worth of clothing and accessories – at no cost to them.
Persimmon Boutique is located on the corner of 40th Avenue and Summitview Avenue in the Westpark Shopping Center. Please come and shop with us!
Donations can be made at the back of the store or at our main office at 818 W. Yakima Avenue.
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