Our new ‘Rags to Riches’ appeal is asking you to bring in your old clothes and shoes – even if they are worn or damaged.
Emmaus Oxford wants to spread the word that we can raise vital funds from any fabric or footwear. Our charity store on Barns Road in the Cowley area of Oxford stocks the quality items, but we also make use of clothes and shoes which aren’t sellable, passing them to a recycling company who buy in bulk – also raising money for Emmaus.
We provide a home, support and meaningful work for 28 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. Those supported at the community live together and help to run the charity store.
Speaking about the new appeal, Emmaus Oxford Store Manager Jaime Dodson explained:
“It’s all about getting the word out there that Emmaus really can make the most of anything you might usually throw away, especially old clothing and footwear. We’re already known in the area as a charity that collects and resells unwanted furniture; now we want people to know we can raise funds from other things too.”
In 2017, Emmaus Oxford were able to generate over £1,800 through bagging up old clothes and shoes for recycling.
Our companion Vanda, a formerly homeless woman who is being supported by Emmaus Oxford, said:
“I love the fact that nothing goes to waste here. When someone comes in with a bag of clothes, we make the most of everything in it. We save sleeping bags and warm clothing and regularly donate to local community projects who give them out to those sleeping rough. We then sort through each bag to see what can be sold in the shop and what can be bagged up for recycling. Whichever route each item takes, it is helping Emmaus to support the homeless in some way.”
Anyone interested in donating clothing or footwear for Emmaus, can drop off their donations at our store at 242 Barns Road, Cowley, Oxford.
Find out more about our store.