Jacob’s Closet & Emerald Mission is a non-profit organization founded in 2021 and is located in Lee’s Summit, MO. The mission of the 501(c)(3) non-profit is to provide resources and support for those affected by mental illness in Kansas City and surrounding areas. 

The inspiration of Jacob’s Closet & Emerald Mission was formed to honor Jacob Skowronski, who was diagnosed with mental illness and passed away on Super Bowl Sunday in February 2018. Jacob had a heart of gold and was wise beyond his years.  Although he had many struggles and curveballs thrown at him in his short life, Jacob was a deep, passionate soul with a burning desire to help others. He exemplified this in many areas of his life. Jacob wanted to “do good in this world” and promised to “make a difference.”  In a book for his new baby niece, he once wrote, “The beauty to do good in the world lies in your heart.” 

Jacob passionately believed every person deserves food, clothing, and shelter regardless of life choices or circumstances. Several times during the struggle with Jacob’s illness, he was hospitalized as an inpatient at University Behavioral Health (formerly Truman Medical Center Behavioral Health). As an inpatient, he realized the need for resources for this population of individuals. Jacob’s family vowed to help him provide donations to the hospital in his honor. 

After Jacob’s passing, his family kept their promise to him to provide books and activities for the patients. In May 2019, Jacob’s family and friends made their first donations to University Behavioral Health.  They soon realized there was an even larger need for clothes, shoes, coats, food and more for the patients after they were discharged. 

In addition to the University Behavioral Health donations, Jacob’s Closet & Emerald Mission provides “Happy Kits” to Children’s Mercy Hospital. The emergency department and the Mental Health Child Life Specialist distribute the kits to children and teens that are admitted for behavioral and mental health concerns. The activity kits are being used to offer safe opportunities for self-expression and to normalize the environment for a potentially less stressful experience. No matter the reason a child is in the hospital, their natural language is to play.  Donating these items will also ensure that this natural expression for a child is always present.

At this time, Jacob’s Closet & Emerald Mission focuses the majority of its support to University Behavioral Health and Children’s Mercy Hospital. The future goals are to grow and donate to additional organizations. We will continue to honor Jacob’s legacy and Empower others with Jacob’s Vision to “Keep Doing Good in this World.”

Please check the website for more information: https://jacobsclosetemeraldmission.org/