2026 season is in full swing - donations welcome every Tuesday
Lisa Ray (founder, center) with Nisa Solis and Lori Klemowicz, volunteers at Children's Resource Network of the Central Coast

Our story

From a single Facebook post to five programs across California

In 2009, Lisa Ray - herself a former homeless unaccompanied youth - posted on Facebook asking friends to help one family in need. The response was immediate and overwhelming. What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into the Children's Resource Network of the Central Coast, now expanding to serve children across California.

Lisa understands what it means to go without. She built this organization to make sure no child in the Central Coast feels the same. Today, with 1,500 volunteers and five distinct programs, CRNCC reaches thousands of children annually - from Lompoc to the Carrizo Plain, and growing into Southern California.

Our mission and values

Mission

To provide free clothing, school supplies, and other basic resources to children in need on the Central Coast and Southern California.

Dignity

Every child deserves to choose their own clothing in an environment that feels like a store, not a handout. Our teen closets are designed as thrift-shop experiences that respect autonomy and personal style.

Access

No referrals, no paperwork, no proof of income required. If a child needs clothing, we provide it - no questions asked. Walk in, call us, or request help online.

Community

We are powered by 1,500 volunteers and community partners - individuals, schools, hospitals, and businesses working together to ensure no child goes without basic necessities.

How we're organized

As a 501(c)(3) public charity, Children's Resource Network of the Central Coast is governed by a volunteer board and run by a small, dedicated staff.

Volunteer Board of Directors

Our board provides governance oversight, ensures fiscal responsibility, and guides strategic direction. All board members serve without compensation.

Officers: Lisa Ray (President), R. Lance Cowart (Treasurer), Lisa Ludovici (Secretary)

Active Committees

Our work is organized through volunteer committees - Programs & Services, Development & Fundraising, Community Outreach, and Finance & Audit. Each committee meets monthly and reports to the board.

Interested in joining a committee? Contact us.

Annual Meeting

Each fall, our board and community stakeholders gather to review the year's impact, approve the annual budget, and set priorities for the year ahead. The meeting is open to donors, volunteers, and community members.

Next annual meeting: Oct 15, 2026

Non-discrimination policy

Join our community of 1,500 volunteers

Whether you can give an hour a month or a day a week, there's a place for you at Clothig Closet.