WHO would have thought that generosity and sustainability can be paired?

Well, Claire de Sylva, a personal organiser and avid thrifter, has created a unique system that keeps useful items out of landfills while channeling money and resources to local charities.

At the heart of her store are two simple yet powerful concepts: a free box filled with everyday essentials that anyone in need can take and a system where items donated for charity will see an organisation of the donor’s choice receive 25% of the proceeds from the sale of the item.

Also read: Sunningdale’s literacy organisation promotes reading in learners

Over time, De Sylva has seen people searching for unexpected items — sometimes unusual, sometimes practical — but always with a purpose.

“There’s a use for everything, and what might have been tossed away, now find new uses in creative hands. Even mismatched containers, unsellable pillows, and lidless jars become treasures in the right setting,” she said.

Needless to say, she believes that even the smallest items can find a second life.

The second act of kindness includes a colour-coded sticker system where each colour represents a different charity, and when customers purchase items, a portion of the money goes directly to that cause.

Items donated for charity will see an organisation of the donor’s choice receive 25 % of the proceeds from the sale of the item.

Donors get to nominate their favorite charity to be the beneficiary of those proceeds.
With about 13 beneficiaries so far, the impact is growing steadily. Since the inception of this initiative a month ago R9771 has been raised for charity.

Also read: SPCA fashion fair in uMhlanga to support sustainability and furry friends

This, she says, has created an exciting new revenue stream for these charities.

“It’s money they didn’t have before. People can choose to allocate their sales earnings to a charity of their choice. If they ask us to choose a charity, we have chosen I Care and the Durban North Baby Home,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful wave of gratitude, generosity, and love,” added De Sylva.

Other than the free box, there is something else De Sylva offers at no cost, which are words of encouragement and affirmation and hugs.

“If someone is having a bad day, they don’t even have to buy anything. They can just come in and feel at home.”
If you would like to donate items for charity or the free box, visit her store on 87 Umhlanga Rocks Drive, shop 13B.

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here