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Sharp Dressed Man opens new, temporary location

Posted at 7:39 PM, Apr 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-13 19:39:00-04

Sharp Dressed Man is a non-profit that's been working recover after an electrical fire and other building issues forced it to close.

Now, thanks to the generosity of the community, it continues to bridge the gap for men looking to re-enter the workforce.

RELATED: Devastating fire at Sharp Dressed Man leaves volunteer business searching for new location

"You can have all the skills in the world, you can be ready to work, you can be a hard worker, but if you are not prepared physically, if you don't look professional you're not going to be taken as seriously," Jenny Kessler-Klump,  Execuitve Director of  Sharp Dressed Man told ABC2. "We opened a small boutique over on 235 Park Avenue in December and we really hit our stride."

That stride was disrupted when an electrical fire and other issues rendered the building condemned.

"Effectively we were shut down. We were homeless," Kessler-Klump said.

Wednesday, thanks to the Baltimore Development Corporation, Sharp Dressed Man was able to call a new 20,000 square foot facility home  at least for now.

See also: Sharp Dressed Man fits Baltimore men in need with donated suits to help them get back on their feet

"When the opportunity presented itself to help here, it was second nature," Darron Cooper, of Baltimore Development Corporation, said.

This nonprofit, with the help of 15 partners, offers business attire for those referred to its stylists so men in need can lead successful lives.

"It boosts my confidence, I actually know the importance of why we're here,"  client, Quionte Patterson, said.

"There's nothing greater than seeing the transformation the men go through both on the outside and the inside," Kessler-Klump said.

The city's Economic Development agency also helped with getting Sharp Dressed Man up and running again. Donations are always welcome Tuesday through Thursday at the new Park Avenue location. This year's goal is to serve 1500 men and the organization has already outfitted 700.

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