Belly2Brain’s charity shop celebrated its first birthday on 1 November. The shop donates its profits to those in need.

Founder Dominique Tibbles explained that community members donate their previously loved items – such as clothing, toys, kitchenware, and furniture – which are then sold at very low prices, even on lay-by. The profits are used to assist various Belly2Brain beneficiaries, including schools in need.

Jacolene Mentz introduced the idea of the charity shop in 2024, and what began as a small initiative has grown with love and care into a vibrant space in the heart of Krugersdorp.

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“It has created employment for two young people who assist in the shop, and a domestic worker who once used the lay-by option now earns a bi-weekly wage, which she uses to support her household,” said Dominique.

She added that they have also built strong relationships with numerous businesses and community members across the West Rand.

The store sells a bit of everything that’s donated, except books.

“We have a relationship with some Roodepoort non-profits – we exchange books we receive for items we need that they have,” she said.

The team celebrated the shop’s first birthday with a photo booth and plenty of fun, as visitors dressed up in a variety of quirky outfits.

“We’ll be running specials throughout November, including three raffles, beautiful prizes, and lucky draws offering up to 70% discounts,” Dominique added.

She said their goal is for the store to double its revenue so they can do more for hungry children in the community and partner with more schools running feeding schemes.

Dominique explained that Belly2Brain has two main focuses:

• The charity shop, which uses its profits to feed children in the community
• The non-profit company, which runs the 3 500 Campaign – a drive to recruit 3 500 individuals or corporates as monthly donors to help open the organisation’s first House of Safety for boys. Through this, they aim to provide housing, clothing, education, and faith-based mentorship to help boys grow into men who lead with compassion and purpose

“Come visit the store and experience the love from our staff while thrifting for a cause. Donate your previously loved items and do some thrifting yourself. Spread the word!” she concluded.

You can visit the shop at 50 Viljoen Street.