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Cumberland Today
By the People, for the People
Retired Teacher Turns Second-Hand Purchases Into Community Support
Barbara Daniels has led volunteers at the Cumberland Clothes Closet thrift store for 15 years, using profits to fund local programs and scholarships.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:53am
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Barbara Daniels, a retired Powhatan County Public Schools teacher, has spent the last 15 years leading volunteers at the Cumberland Clothes Closet, a thrift store that sells gently used items at low prices. All profits from the store, after operating costs, are reinvested into the local community through various programs and donations, including $10,000 scholarships, support for the local library, and donations to volunteer fire departments.
Why it matters
The Cumberland Clothes Closet addresses a real need in the community, as Cumberland County lacks a grocery store, forcing residents to travel to neighboring counties for essential items. The thrift store provides affordable clothing and household goods, while also serving as a hub for community support and investment.
The details
Daniels oversees a group of volunteers who help customers find affordable items for their families. The store sells mostly clothes, as well as glassware, books, and other usable household items. After covering operating costs, all profits from the store are reinvested into the community through scholarships, library support, and donations to local fire departments.
- Barbara Daniels started volunteering at the Cumberland Clothes Closet after her teaching career ended 15 years ago.
- The Cumberland Clothes Closet has been operating for over 15 years.
The players
Barbara Daniels
A retired Powhatan County Public Schools teacher who has led volunteers at the Cumberland Clothes Closet thrift store for the past 15 years.
Cumberland Clothes Closet
A thrift store in Cumberland, Virginia that sells gently used items at low prices and uses its profits to support various community programs and initiatives.
Catherine Trammell
A friend of Barbara Daniels who wanted to honor her for her work at the Cumberland Clothes Closet.
What they’re saying
“It's often difficult for them to clothe a family - a large family- with prices today.”
— Barbara Daniels, Director, Cumberland Clothes Closet
“There is no grocery store in Cumberland County. So we have to go either to Prince Edward, to Powhatan, and or Buckingham County just to get groceries.”
— Catherine Trammell, Friend of Barbara Daniels
What’s next
The Cumberland Clothes Closet plans to continue its mission of supporting the local community through its thrift store operations and reinvestment of profits.
The takeaway
The Cumberland Clothes Closet's model of using a thrift store to fund community programs and support demonstrates how small, mission-driven businesses can make a significant impact in underserved areas, addressing both economic and social needs.
