Central Jersey business offering free dry cleaning for unemployed going on job interview

A Union County dry cleaner is cleaning with care.

A new initiative at White Label Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services, with locations in Kenilworth and Hillside, helps unemployed workers ready for their next job interview by cleaning a suit or interview outfit at no cost.

"When times are tough, we want to help job seekers look and feel their best," says Leonor Urena, president and team leader at White Label Dry Cleaners & Laundry Services. "We know better than anyone what a clean and pressed garment can do for morale. We’re pleased to do our part to restore the confidence of workers and families in our area."

Urena said the project was launched when a customer came in and asked if he could pay at a later date as he didn't currently have a job. The outfit that needed to be cleaned was for a job interview.

"I know what it is to be without a job, and felt for the guy," Urena said. "I told him he didn't have to worry about it. I don't know if he got the job, but I wanted him to go in as confident as possible and feel good about himself. That is who we are, and really is what our business is about."

After this customer left, Urena thought of having a sign made and posting it so no one would have to ask.

"They can just come in and say they have an interview," she said.

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Since the sign has been up, Urena said the shop has had a few customers take them up on their offer. That, in itself, makes her feel good, she said.

White Label Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services has not placed an expiration date on their new community service.

Anyone dropping off a garment for an interview can expect to receive it back, ready to wear, in two days.

Anyone taking advantage of the service should mention to the Team Lead at their two locations that the garment is for an interview, she said.

Urena said the shop does a similar service for those who need an outfit cleaned for a funeral. White Label also tries to support police officers and cadets by giving them a discount on cleaning uniforms.

"We are especially proud of seeing those who graduate come back in their graduating uniform," Urena said.

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Cheryl Makin is an award-winning features and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: [email protected] or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ business offers free dry cleaning for unemployed for job interview