Tucked inside 37 South Broadway in Nyack is the "Clothes Collective," a small store filled with donated business clothing and accessories. The shop is run by students for students - and everything is free.

It helps provide professional attire to students who may not have access to it for important professional life events.

“I've seen a little bit of relief knowing the stress of not being able to get the clothes that they need is now gone for them,” said Nyack High School senior Ella Rossiter when asked how the students are when they get clothes. “They’re able to pick out anything based on their style and preferences and there’s no need to grab something that they don’t really want.”

Rossiter co-led the collective alongside fellow student Ella Rakhlin, who has since graduated and is now in college. Both young women were part of the Youth & Government progam.

Rakhlin said she first realized the need after noticing some of her peers didn’t have business attire for professional settings.

“I hope that one day all of our students will be able to have an equitable education and can advance in the workforce free of any charge,” Rakhlin said when she asked what she hopes for the future.

Since launching in 2024, the Clothes Collective has helped about 100 students.

Through its Instagram social page, @Clothescollective.usa, the initiative has also served students outside the area — including in California.

Nyack High School sophomore Danna Marroquin plans to take over leadership next year and hopes to continue expanding the program’s reach.

“Maybe get other students to start a Clothes Collective as well, maybe send donations over and make them start their own store,” she said.

The space where the store is was donated by the Rockland County YMCA, which also covers shipping costs for sending donations.

“We really appreciate all the support from the YMCA. We really would not be able to do this without them,” Rossiter said.

“Without them, this maybe would have never happened,” Marroquin added.

The Clothes Collective is always accepting donations.

Students in need can contact them to schedule an appointment to shop in person or connect online.