Tala's Closet is bridging the gap for victims and survivors of domestic violence. In partnership with New Beginnings in Licking County and The Lighthouse in Fairfield County, and Transitions for Perry County, Tala's Closet will provide clothing and personal items to those escaping violence and in transition. Many victims leave with nothing but the clothing on their backs. Some start over with children and very limited resources. Tala's is one way to help alleviate their stress. It's just one answer to many of their needs. Located inside the Water's Edge Community Center, Tala's Closet is combined with the food pantry and will be open to anyone in need in the community. The closet is in honor of a life lost to domestic violence in Licking County in March 2024. Tala Smith was a 21-year-old woman with a huge heart. Her life motto: see a need, fill a need. and that is exactly what Tala's Closet is all about. May she rest in peace knowing her legacy lives on. Tala's is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12 - 1, which is during the food pantry hours.
Tala’s Closet Needs list:
Boys/girls/ladies/men
- packaged underwear
- packaged socks
Shoes/boots – kids
Body lotion, shampoo
Boys all sizes – bottoms
24 months clothing boys/9m-24m girls clothing
Coloring books for all ages (we have plenty of crayons and colored pencils)
Word search, crosswords, sudoku, adult coloring books for mom
Blankets
4 pk toilet paper ($1 at Dollar General)
Towels, sheets and pillow cases
Dish soap and Dish towels
Size 5 diapers
Dry cat food
updated December 13, 2025
Drop off donations during our Food Pantry hours of Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12 - 1. You can also drop off donations in two locations in Buckeye Lake at Dockside Donuts, across from KOA Campground during their business hours of 7 am to 2 pm, also at Pak Mail in their lobby 8am to 6 pm (across from Pizza Cottage) or in North Newark at the Big Kahuna Laundromat on 21st Street next to Walmart.
