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The lights have dimmed, the set is now cold and empty. But for half a century, a CBS studio in Manhattan was once home to thousands of actors and millions of viewers who watched the "Guiding Light" characters move between rooms, relationships and thousands of wardrobe changes.

"The fictional lives you've seen for years on the soap opera could now help become a part of the real lives of some women in need of help," said "Guiding Light" Director of Costumes Shawn Reeves.

Reeves says practically each outfit has its own story.

"We would definitely be familiar with some of these items. There are a few pieces here that Joan Collins wore when she was on our show a few years ago," Reeves said.

The show will continue for many of the outfits. Rather than sack or sell them, Reeves is putting them to work in the real world.

"I have a large number of women's career-type clothing. And I wanted to be able to donate it somehow," Reeves said. "So I actually read about this organization in the newspaper one morning and I contacted them and we basically got the ball rolling."

The place he read about is called The Bottomless Closet.

"We are an organization that is helping disadvantaged New York City women who are transitioning to the work force," said Bottomless Closet Board President Diane Kenney. "And we do that in several ways initially by providing business-appropriate clothing."

Bottomless Closet helps women break out of the victim cycle by providing job coaching, resume critiques and of course the clothes that play a big part in many job interviews.

Lakeisha Johnson had been on public assistance when she was referred to the organization.

"Coming through this transition, not knowing what to expect at Bottomless Closet and being treated respectfully, like a lady, transitions from jeans and sneakers to a business suit," said Johnson. "It boosted my self-esteem, as in when I went into that interview, I was employed after the first interview."

So while "Guiding Light" the TV show may be cancelled, its outfits will be illuminating a new path for women trying to step from darkness into the spotlight of life.

"I just want these women to really feel good about themselves," Reeves said. "I want them to put their best foot forward and feel confident in themselves no matter what...and just go out there and get a job."