TWO Redlands mums have a vision of community hubs where parents can exchange children’s clothing they no longer need for what they can use.
Angela Hampton, of Redland Bay, has had the idea for a few years, but was spurred on by children in her neighbourhood who did not have enough warm clothes.
“I put a call out on social media and Cindy (Fox) gave me some clothes for them,” she said.
“I thought it would be great if people could swap clothes their children no longer needed for free.”
Ms Hampton said clothes were cheap at secondhand shops, but for people who are struggling or have a tight budget the costs added up.
“I started thinking a few years ago that as a grandmother I would love to have a garage full of clothes and for people to contact me if they need help.
“But I am not going to be old for a long time.”
"It’s a goodwill system and I think the majority of people will be honest."
- Angela Hampton, founder
Ms Hampton got support for her idea and Ms Fox offered to start the project at her house at Birkdale.
Running her own business as a jeweller, Ms Hampton welcome the offer from Ms Fox, who runs the initiative after homeschooling her two children during the day.
There are no checks and balances as Ms Hampton believes the majority of people will do the right thing and will be helped through the initiative.
“It’s a goodwill system and I think the majority of people will be honest.”
Ms Fox said she had been helped by friends and family members and had clothes passed on for her children.
“I wanted to give back to others,” she said.
“This is my way of paying it back.”
An early success
- One mum helped by the group had a premature baby boy, after being told three times that she was pregnant with a girl. Ms Hampton said the mother had asked if anyone had clothes and the community initiative was able to help her out with donations they had received.
They already have clothes ranging from sizes 0000 to 16 years donated and have been able to pass on clothes to Redlands families.
Ms Hampton said some of the clothes were brand-name items and most were in a really good condition.
“It is great even for people who are not struggling, but are just on a tight budget.
“People have been so generous,” she said.
Ms Hampton said they would consider loaning clothing such as snow gear and formal outfits as these are often in good condition and not needed for long.
Ms Hampton hoped they can expand to Capalaba and Redland Bay.
“Anyone who does it needs a garage or room to put the clothes,” she said.
For information, see The Redlands Qld Kids Clothes Swap on Facebook.
Anyone who can donate roller tubs to store the clothes is asked to contact Angela Hampton via the group’s Facebook page.
To make an appointment to drop off or get clothes, text Cindy Fox on 0491 138 211.