I was just saying the other day that I needed clothes. And though I very occasionally obtain them the old-fashioned way (buying them at stores), I’m much more likely to be found browsing the racks at a thrift store, or, whenever possible, trading them with friends, swap style. It’s not only the most eco-friendly way to get “new” clothes, but it’s cheaper (or even free), and most importantly, when your rags are second-hand, you’re not running the risk of supporting unfair labor practices. Plus, I like feeling that my jacket has a story… has lived a little. I like my wardrobe to have heart.
Charity Clothing Swap & Vegan Bake Sale
I am also a big fan of the organization, HEART — Humane Education Advocates Reaching Teachers — headed up by Meena Alagappan, who shared her inspirational story with us last year on our podcast. It is HEART’s mission to “foster compassion & respect for all living beings & the environment by educating youth and teachers in humane education.” And now, in what is perhaps the most unique fundraiser ever, activist Alyson Berman is putting together a Clothing Swap and Vegan Bake Sale to benefit HEART.
The event, which is being sponsored by Ecorazzi, works like this:
For each item you bring to swap, you’ll get a ticket. Each ticket gets you an item of your choosing to take home. The more you bring, the more tickets you get. Plus, we’ll have a vegan bake sale with lots of goodies! Also, we’re having a raffle with prizes from amazing companies like vegan cookie goddess Liz Lovely! WHAT TO BRING: Clothing, shoes, belts, hats, jewelry & accessories. ***Everything must be clean***
In addition to the income from the bake sale, money will be raised for HEART by a very reasonable $10 door cover (or $7 for students), making this a fundraiser that is accessible for those of us who are concerned about our wallets. (You might even be able to find a new-old wallet at the swap.)
It will take place on Wednesday, May 11, from 4:00-9:00, at Trinity Lutheran Parish, 602 E. 9th St., NYC.
If you’re in the Big Apple, come to this groundbreaking, fun event. If you’re not, then you really should consider stealing this idea (as I hope to do in the future), and host your own clothing swap with a modest cover charge that will go toward benefiting an animal rights organization or campaign. Not only will you feel good for supporting such a good cause and not contributing to consumerism, but your new wardrobe and accessories can leave you looking like a rock star, too.