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

Body lotion, shampoo, razors, tweezers

Word search, crosswords, adult coloring books for mom

Blankets, towels, sheets

4 pk toilet paper ($1 at Dollar General)

Dish soap and Dish towels, hot pads

Hand soap, hand towels, wash cloths

Dry cat food #5 or less, canned cat food

Large tote bags for our shoppers                                                                                 

  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. 

updated January 2026