With Christmas 2022 fast approaching, two residents of Imperial Apartments, Sade and Elisha, came up with the idea of a weekly Clothes and Toys Swap. This would be a friendly space where residents can drop clothes or toys they no longer need and get something new to them, whilst stopping by for a cup of coffee and a chat.
Ania Alvarez and Claire McNeill from BCC Community Development supported Elisha and Sade in figuring out the logistics of these sessions alongside Caridon, the landlord company - and they brought this great idea to reality!
In a short amount of time, Sade and Elisha have received many wonderful donations from other tenants to begin the swap. Caridon contributed a storage cupboard and a clothes rail, whilst Claire and Ania have helped with hot drinks and the posters. And the first few sessions have been a success!
When asked what prompt her to begin this session, Sade mentioned that she’s seen people dumping and taking stuff around the building, so there should be a place for it. Elisha added she wanted to help other people who are in need.
Elisha is looking forward to the next sessions and is happy to see people get things they want and need. Sade agrees. When you’ve got nothing, every little helps. And for those who can’t afford stuff, it helps them out!
Sade and Elisha have now collected so many clothes, they are even planning to give some to charity. Through their idea, they are improving the environment at Imperial whilst helping others.
