Since opening last month, Hope's Closet Children's Resale Shop is extending opportunities for high school teenagers to gain valuable work experience.

“We want to make this a place where freshmen to senior in need of community service hours can get in their much-needed hours – they’ll learn retail skills and about serving their community at the same time,” said Laura Vieira-Saunders.

She’s the executive director for Ray of Hope, the non-profit organization in charge of Hope’s Closet located at 1030 W. Yosemite Ave., Manteca.

Proceeds from the store benefits the Children Service programs such as the Ray of Hope Children’s Crisis Services.

“We had people who came into the store thinking it was built just for (Ray of Hope). We’re open to the public,” said Vieira-Saunders, who is gearing up for the Back-to-School Supply Drive scheduled for May.

Hope’s Closet is accepting not just to teenagers on probation but those in need of hours for school or projects.

“We are a unique children’s resale shop that brings a service to our community like no other. Shoppers help support our programs, get a great bargain while donors keep us in stock for all the kids we serve,” Vieira-Saunders said.

She added that most clothes can be had by the general public for $5 or less.

Hope’s Closet is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Donations can be dropped off at the rear of the store during business days from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hope’s Closet will allow children who are referred to Ray of Hope from the various agencies to freely shop in comfortable environment.

For more information, call 209.597.0574.