Brides helping brides is the motto of Gina’s Closet, a local not for profit retail store dedicated to giving back in our community by raising money for cancer research and care. While the volunteers at Gina’s Closet may come from all walks of life, they all have two important things in common: their lives have all been touched by cancer in some way, and they have a strong desire to help others and give back. Since 2014, the dedicated group of more than 20 volunteers who run Gina’s Closet have raised an incredible total of over $45,000 for the Waterloo Wellington Breast Centre at Grand River Hospital.

With the help of our great community, Gina’s Closet collects donations of previously loved wedding dresses and bridal wear. These secondhand items are then sold within our community at a significantly reduced price, and all of the money raised from these sales is donated to local cancer charities. Their goal is to help each bride that visits them find the perfect dress within their budget in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, all while raising money for an important cause that’s close to their hearts.

Gina’s Closet was founded in memory of Gina Luciantonio, a dear friend of the store’s founders who passed away from breast cancer in 2005. Through her work, volunteerism and charitable activities, Gina touched many lives during her lifetime. She is remembered as a loving wife and mother and an active member of our community—her passion for family, friends and community is carried on through the work of the volunteers at Gina’s Closet.

Thank you so much to Gina’s Closet for their generous and ongoing support of Grand River Hospital. It is estimated that 1 in 8 Canadian women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, and when cancer touches the life of someone you know and love, having exceptional care close to home makes all the difference. 

To make an impact on breast cancer care in our community, learn more about Gina’s Closet and how you can donate your previously loved bridal wear or make a purchase that gives back. You can also donate in support of the Waterloo Wellington Breast Centre at Grand River Hospital.