JOHN’S CLOSET opened in 1988 and has operated as a labor of love ever since.  It was established by Former Assemblyman Lou Papan and his wife Irene in memory of their son John who died at the age of 21 after suffering from a rare illness for most of his life.  They wanted to honor John’s courage and determination and ability to be positive in the face of adversity.   

Since 1988, JOHN’S CLOSET has outfitted over 12,000 children with no fixed costs, no overhead  and an entirely volunteer staff.  JOHN’S CLOSET operates in a classroom in Ben Franklin Middle School.  The room was converted into an inviting store-like atmosphere with carpet, dressing rooms, mirrors, and miniblinds on the windows for privacy.  We also have two other small areas we use for storage.

About thirty volunteers do all the work which includes picking up damaged samples from the Gap, mending these samples, sorting, sizing, stocking, purchasing new clothing, taking calls, verifying qualifications, scheduling appointments, and fitting the children. 

JOHN’S CLOSET serves approximately 500 children over the course of the school year.  The work of the JOHN’S CLOSET volunteers clothing at-risk kids and boosting their self-esteem is nothing short of extraordinary!

Irene and Lou Papan are both deceased.  Their daughters, Gina and Diane Papan are privileged to carry on their parents’ legacy in memory of John Papan. 

JOHN’S CLOSET’S OPERATION

CITIES WE SERVE:   JOHN’S CLOSET serves Northern San Mateo County -- Daly City, Colma, Brisbane, South San Francisco, Pacifica, San Bruno and Millbrae. 

AGES SERVED:    Ages 4 to 18

LOCATION:           Ben Franklin Middle School

                              700 Stewart Avenue, Room 43

                              Daly City, CA 94015

HOW WE OPERATE:           JOHN’S CLOSET operates by appointment.  To arrange for an appointment, call Diane or Gina Papan at 650-871-7440 or complete and return the referral form.  Completed referral forms can be faxed to 650-875-7743 or e-mailed to LPapan@jps.net.  Children must be present to receive clothing.  As we operate in a school, our appointments are during school time, M-F 9:30 to 12:00.  Appointments take about an hour. 

DONATIONS:                  Tax-deductible contributions may be made to JOHN’S CLOSET by check made payable to John’s Closet and mailed to the following address:      

                                                John’s Closet

                                                c/o Diane and Gina Papan

                                                440 Green Hills Drive

                                                Millbrae, CA 94030