Residents swap, drop and shop for local charities

IT’S a novel way of finding a change of wardrobe, re-homing unwanted goods, picking up something useful and most importantly supporting local charities. Durban North resident and former Northglen News reporter, Shannon Jenkins did all of this recently when she hosted a ‘Swap, Drop & Shop’.

“I heard of people doing clothing swap parties and always thought it was a cool idea. I come from a family of girls and we tend to accumulate clothing over time. Recently, we found that between my mom, myself and my two sisters we had accumulated a rather large pile of good quality clothing that we felt other people might be able to get some joy from. At the same time, I’m always aware of the fact that there are so many disadvantaged people in this country who have nothing.

“I decided to change the concept slightly and turned it into a ‘Swap, Drop & Shop’, where people could donate their older items, swap certain pieces and then offer up designer garments or items of high value to sell. I also asked people to bring matric dance evening wear. I managed to collect a whole box full and donated these to the Jess Foord Foundation,” she said.

Jenkins said she would encourage other Durban North residents to do the same.

“I think more people should do it. Since we all want new clothes but can’t always afford to buy new things, a friend or family member might have the item you’ve been dreaming of. It costs nothing and there is always the chance for you to help others with your donated items.

“Those that have attended have never left empty handed and were all so happy to leave with a few new and exciting wardrobe additions, including myself,” she said.

This year Shannon decided to donate some of the clothing to a NGO, Mpumelelo Yobumbano (fighting to succeed) which is based in Clermont. “Some of the clothing we collected was distributed to people we know, who we continue to support in their personal capacity,” she explained.