Local businesswoman Shannon Schaubhut has a life-mission to help others; this is strongly reflected in her newest project called Samantha’s Closet. Two weeks ago, Schaubhut donated a room in each of her 2 B Tan salon locations to receive donated formals to be given to young women in need of one for either prom or other special occasions.

The concept originated out of Schaubhut’s (a single, working mother of two) and her daughter Samantha’s experience with relocation post-Katrina, when a community took them in and even made sure that her daughter had school clothes and prom attire, at a time when they had lost everything.

“God has really blessed us with a great community and customers who care for each other. As my daughter and I reflected on her post-Katrina prom experience and how blessed we felt, we thought how wonderful it would be to help others have the same experience. We both believe in paying your blessings forward. She inspires me daily, so I named the project ‘Samantha’s Closet.’

“To date, we have over 35 dresses and accessories to go with them, in a wide assortment of sizes. It is overwhelming to see the flood of community response to this need. The dresses are free and absolutely beautiful. Anyone who takes one will be proud to wear it,” said Schaubhut.

While Samantha’s Closet has only been in operation for two weeks, the concept behind it has begun to grow and evolve as more people come forward to help. Brent Belsome, owner of Chesterfield’s, in Slidell, will donate a dinner for prom to any young woman who wears a dress from Samantha’s Closet.

Schaubhut announced that in addition to formalwear, the Closet is now accepting career wear. Also, effective immediately through the end of 2012, the salons are accepting essays from women in the community who are in need of a professional makeover, complete with hair and makeup, to begin a new career in the new year.

“The essay contest will start immediately and a winner will be chosen by December 30th. Self-confidence is key to being the best you that you can be. In this economy, the career world is very competitive and you have to bring everything you have to land a job,” said Schaubhut.

If you or someone you know would like to access the closet or enter the contest, either stop by 2 B Tan, located at: 1703 Highway 11 North in Picayune, or email: shannonschaubhut@yahoo.com. The Picayune salon can also be reached by calling 601-798-0075.