People are now being forced to work or they are being taken off the welfare rolls. This transition from welfare to work does offer consequences for those involved, so communities have begun to help. It caters to women who are trying to make the transition from welfare to work by giving them professional outfits to wear to interviews. The store's owner, Joan Gaskins, opened the boutique because she is in a position to help these women who she believes deserve the best when they are trying to better their lives. Her philosophy is based on a belief that if you've never worked, you don't have slacks, skirts, dress shoes or blouses.
Gaskins knows that a first impression is an important one.
By obtaining a wardrobe, the women are not only able to look professional, they are given the confidence they need in an interview. Women earn additional outfits by staying on the job for specific periods of time. Efforts such as these give women the self-respect they need as they attempt to comply with the new welfare laws.