Two local mums are starting a children’s clothes swap in Ramsbottom to help families access free clothing and keep perfectly good stuff out of landfill.
Caroline Donohoe and Lucy Gilson came up with the idea after seeing a news report about clothing poverty – kids going to school in clothes with holes or shoes that don’t fit.
They posted about it on Facebook and got an immediate response. MotherZen on Market Place offered to host, and the Little Clothing Club was born.
Caroline, a legal executive, said: “It’s just so upsetting to know that they’re in that position when there’s so much stuff going to waste and a lot of us have an excess of clothes that could be passed down and passed on.”
The first swap is on Sunday, May 17, from 2-4pm at MotherZen (2 Market Place). It’s open to everyone – you can bring an item and swap it for another, or donate £2 and take up to five items. There’s also a QR code for donations to cover practical costs like hangers and posters.
They’ve already had drop-offs and have plenty of clothes for babies and toddlers, but they’re particularly looking for sizes that fit 3-16 year olds.
Lucy, who works as a virtual assistant, explained they’re keeping the £2 option to make sure there’s enough for everyone who comes, and to prevent people taking things to sell on.
Down the line, they hope to work with schools and community centres to get bundles directly to families who need them.
Tori Johnson from MotherZen said: “I was passionate about supporting The Little Clothing Club as anything that supports parents and builds community is aligned with our ethos.”
You can follow Little Clothing Club on Facebook for updates.
Source: Bury Times
