A pole caddy comprises a pole, one or more collars to each of which is removably attached a cantilevered shelf preferably made of metal wire. Each collar, preferably made of structural plastic, has a downwardly extending tab that runs along the pole. The tab has a contact portion, preferably an elastomer pad, in contact with the exterior of the pole. The weight of the shelf and any articles on the shelf applies force through a brace part of the shelf, to cause the tab to frictionally engage the pole and thus hold the shelf at a desired elevation.