What began as a deeply personal tribute has grown into a vital community resource for Norwood residents in need. Annie’s Closet, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, gently used clothing, was founded in memory of Norwood native, Andrea “Annie,” Dixon-Lavery, the late sister of co-founder Ali Dixon Baranowski. Andrea, a nurse at Norwood Hospital, was known for her compassion, dedication to service, and love of fashion, and Maryrose Noble. When she passed away at a young age, leaving behind two small children, her family sought a meaningful way to honor her legacy.

Founded two and a half years ago, Annie’s Closet operates with a clear mission: to provide low-income families and individuals with free, lightly used clothing in a dignified and respectful environment. By addressing this basic need, the organization aims to restore confidence and self-worth, helping neighbors move toward a brighter future.

The group’s early vision was to establish clothing closets in every school, but space limitations led to a partnership with the Town of Norwood, which offered space at the Civic Center. The location, however, required appointments, creating challenges for families and volunteers to coordinate mutually convenient schedules. A turning point came when Dave, Ali’s husband and a volunteer at the Norwood Food Pantry, helped secure space in the basement of Grace Episcopal Church. The location has proven to be an ideal fit, allowing Annie’s Closet to operate alongside the food pantry and serve clients more effectively.

Today, Annie’s Closet primarily serves food pantry clients and families connected to Coakley Middle School. More recently, Ali has been working closely with Coakley staff to establish an in-school closet stocked with clothing and personal care items students may need. Requests for assistance have also begun coming in from other Norwood schools.

Each Saturday, the organization serves approximately 100 to 150 clients, benefiting an estimated 200 to 300 individuals each year. Donations, ranging from everyday clothing to seasonal necessities, are carefully sorted by size and gender and displayed on racks to create a welcoming, shop-like experience.

The impact of these donations is immediate and tangible. Ali recalls a recent winter Saturday when a man arrived wearing flip-flops in freezing weather. 

“We were able to send him home with a fairly new pair of boots,” Dixon Baranowski said. “He was thrilled.” 

Providing new clothing to children has been equally meaningful, often making a visible difference in their confidence and comfort.

Annie’s Closet accepts all types of lightly used clothing, as well as shoes, coats, bags, and accessories, provided items are clean and in good condition—no holes, stains, rips, or worn soles. Winter is an especially challenging season, with ongoing needs for boots, shoes, sneakers, hats, mittens, and gloves in all sizes. The organization has been fortunate to receive generous support from community partners, including The First Congregational Church in Norwood, the Lions Club, Olivia’s Garden, which donated 50 new children’s winter jackets, longtime donor Irene Imgeni, who consistently steps up when supplies run low, and recently from Women in Business with donations from their annual winter accessories drive.

Donations can be dropped off at Grace Episcopal Church on Saturdays when Annie’s Closet is open. Donors are asked to check the organization’s website in advance and to park across the street to avoid interfering with food pantry operations. For those unable to drop items off, donation pickups can be requested by completing the contact form at www.anniesclosetnorwood.org.

Beyond clothing donations, community members can support the organization financially through the website’s Donate tab or by purchasing items from its Amazon Wishlist. While Annie’s Closet is currently well-supported by dedicated middle and high school student volunteers, local businesses are encouraged to get involved by donating items or gift cards, particularly during the winter months.

As Annie’s Closet continues to grow, its founders emphasize that spreading the word is just as important as donating. 

“Sharing our mission with friends, neighbors, and local businesses helps us reach more people who need help and more people who want to help,” Noble said.

Before donating, organizers ask residents to remember one simple guideline: give items you would feel comfortable wearing yourself. Through this shared respect and generosity, Annie’s Closet continues to honor Andrea’s legacy—one warm coat, sturdy pair of shoes, and dignified moment at a time.