ALBANY, NY – The Albany County Legislature, led by the Women’s Legislative Caucus, donated dozens of interview-ready shoes, skirts, slacks, blouses, dresses, and scarves, along with feminine hygiene products to the Albany County Sheriff’s Homeless Improvement Program (SHIP) today to continue celebrating Women’s History Month.

SHIP utilizes a decommissioned wing of the Albany County Jail to provide transitional housing and resources – including Thursday’s donations – for homeless individuals. The program expanded in January to include spaces focusing on women and children.

Beyond the donations, the Legislature held an in-person celebration earlier this month with awards and a panel discussion that explored the nuances, challenges, and triumphs of women in education, law, entertainment, immigration, and leadership. Video of the full celebration is available here.

Photos of the donation drop-off are available here.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: “Women deserve to feel confident, strong, and secure. Clothing is a huge part of building that confidence, and we hope today’s donations demonstrate our continuing commitment to lift people, especially women, up. There are plenty of challenges in working back from homelessness. Today, we are trying to make one hurdle a little easier to overcome.”

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: “Access to professional clothing is as important as access to secure shelter for women, particularly women of color, who are creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families. We hope to give hope to those who need it most by supporting SHIP today.”

Albany County Legislature Democratic Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said: “Having access to clean, professional work clothing is essential to securing and maintaining employment. Through this drive, we have created a foundation for the residents at SHIP to begin their job search with confidence. By tackling the real barriers people face when entering the workforce, we’re building a stronger and more resilient Albany County.”

Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple said: “I would like to not only thank the Albany County Legislature for their generous donation of clothing and items to SHIP, but for their constant support of our office. These items will help give our homeless population the assistance they need and provide them with a sense of hope and support from the community. We strive to help others and I’m thankful to partner with the Albany County Legislature on this endeavor.”