After years of working in non-profit services for children, former high school teacher, mother and fervent supporter of women and children, Carolyn Quatier, found a need to effectively support individuals who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in desperate situations. Her background made her all too aware of the exploited women and children. Carolyn knew that to really provide effective, individualized care for these survivors it would take an army of people, each doing their part. She knew she needed to invite the community to participate.

And so, Simple and Just was born. Simple and Just is a boutique-style charity shop for gently-loved better brand clothing and accessories that donates 100% of profits to organizations helping exploited women and children right here in Portland. The boutique offers a consistent stream of funding that allows Simple and Just's executive directors to focus on the specific individual care that each survivor needs.

“Your choice has POWER for bringing justice to those who need it most. Not everyone can provide individualized care, but everyone can help!”

We love Simple and Just’s concept because, let’s be honest, we’ve all done a lot of spring cleaning, Marie Kondo-ing, and decluttering with our ample at-home time in the last year. Donating to Simple and Just will get rid of that pile of clothing you bought and never wore, or that no longer suits you and your lifestyle and you’ll know that your donation is doing good in your immediate community. Bonus: donating and purchasing with charity shops is a great way to help reduce the carbon footprint of fast fashion and garment manufacturing.

Simple and Just accepts all seasons of better brand, gently used men’s and women’s clothing and accessories that are ready for the next person. ( “Better Brands” means on-trend name-brand clothing from, for example, Nordstrom brands, Anthropologie, Madewell, and Nike, among many others.) This helps ensure sales revenue. Any donations that aren’t right for the boutique, will be donated to other organizations helping vulnerable populations. If donating your time is more your style, Simple and Just has open volunteer positions to help sort, steam and tag clothing, or work in the storefront for 2 or 4 hour shifts. Or, if you know a circular fashion lover, you can purchase a gift certificate!

During the month of July 2021, Equilibrium will be collecting donations of better brand, clean, gently used men’s and women’s clothing and accessories to donate to Simple and just. Bring your donations to your next appointment!