As families continue to feel the financial strain of rising living costs, a recent clothing swap event provided a valuable opportunity for locals to refresh their wardrobes without spending a fortune, all while supporting a meaningful cause. The event, held on Saturday at Fleurish, a non-profit social enterprise focused on empowering women in the community, raised funds for the organization’s Fresh Start Employability Program. Located on Snow Valley Road just north of Barrie, Fleurish is dedicated to helping women gain employable skills through a short-term, paid workplace experience.
Lauren Tetford, program coordinator at Fleurish, explained that the event would support the Fresh Start Employability Program, which offers women the chance to participate in workplace training and receive guidance to overcome life’s challenges. “We have a curriculum built to teach employable skills and provide support in all areas of their lives,” said Tetford. The program also includes workshops aimed at boosting confidence, offering mental health support, and creating a therapeutic environment for women as they gain hands-on experience. The goal, she added, is to help participants take their next steps in life, whether that involves pursuing new career opportunities or working through personal barriers.
The clothing swap not only supported this important program but also provided a budget-friendly way for the community to update their wardrobes. The event offered an eco-friendly solution to fast fashion, as donated clothes were made available for a low price. Visitors could fill a bag for $20 or purchase individual items for around $5. Tetford noted that the timing of the event, coinciding with Earth Day, made it particularly fitting, as it allowed participants to support both the environment and a worthy cause.
One attendee, Tosha Lewis, shared her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the benefits of reducing waste through clothing recycling. She didn’t have any specific items in mind as she browsed the tables but appreciated the idea behind the swap. “It’s an amazing program and concept,” said Lewis. “You think, even just environmentally, how much fast fashion waste we have. For people to be done with an item or it doesn’t fit anymore, but then for someone else it’s exactly what they wanted… then you don’t feel guilty. Plus, you’ve also given to a good cause, which is also amazing.”
All of the clothing available at the swap had been generously donated, and shoppers were encouraged to take advantage of the affordable options. Though there wasn’t a specific fundraising goal in mind, Tetford expressed excitement at seeing the community come together to support the initiative. “Anything can help,” she said, noting that this was the first year they had organized a clothing swap. “We all love thrifting, so we thought it would be a nice way to do it for the whole community.”
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