For families on a tight budget the sudden need for a replacement item of school uniform can be an extremely stressful time. The project provides new and used school uniform and items required during the school year. Unusable school uniforms and any waste will be ethically recycled through approved schemes. We also feel that by accepting donations of used uniform and giving to those in need that are are making a positive difference to the environment and reducing the amount of clothing that may have gone to landfill. This is extremely important with climate change increasing in importance throughout the World.
The project will also:
• Help people who are in need and help them to integrate into the local community.
• Reduce the threat of bullying
• Volunteers experience will help them be supported into work, not just through gaining work experience but also improving their English whilst benefitting the community in their free time
• Increase community involvement
• Promote the responsible use and reuse of school uniform
• We are again aiming to meet the needs of the marginalised and vulnerable through the work of the Charity Risk of child poverty with all its impact on well-being is currently showing to be over 18,500 families. With about 15% of Colchester’s population being under the age of 15 there is a potential that about 2,000 young people could be living in poverty within Colchester.
All families are welcome to use the service and we are proud to provide school uniform for many schools in Colchester and the surrounding areas.
The money raised will be used to support the continuation of the uniform project, ensure it's smooth running and provide a valuable service for those in need through attendance at local events.