That Day the Dry Cleaner Cared About the Unemployed

Everyone knows what a monster the economy can be for the employed…let alone those who have jobs.

But most days, if you’re anything like me, the giant, systemic problems that hang over society seem so un-dentable.

That’s why I love stories like Carlos Vasquez’s. They suggest that even if we cannot reverse the economic downturns overnight with some simple solution, there are likely small ways that each of us can support those around us.

To create small shifts toward hope for someone in our worlds.

A small sign taped to the window of Carlos Vasquez‘s E.72nd St. business says it all: “If you are unemployed and need an outfit clean for an interview, we will clean it for FREE,” it reads.

The notice is the 48-year-old’s way of giving his neighbors a helping hand if they find themselves down on their luck.

“It’s just something I do to give back to the community,” explained Vasquez, who owns First Professional Cleaners with his wife, Arelis.