A local charitable organisation have launched a swap shop and free store in Belfast city centre to help those facing hardship.
Another World was founded in 2017 by creative activists Connor Kerr and Becky Bellamy, and has worked for years to 'SHOW SOME LOVE' and supply essential items like clothing, underwear and toiletries to local people experiencing hardship.
In December, the pair started a series of 'pop up's' of their eco-fashion fundraising model around Belfast while they sought out a permanent home.
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Now they have found it at one of Belfast's oldest addresses, 11 Winetavern Street. Inside their bright pink shop you can pick up any item for £10 or you can bring along your great quality clothing to swap for another garment from their curated collection for just £5.
They look at condition, quality and demand with everything from high street to designer wear being accepted. The items that aren’t suitable for swapping will be put to great use in their ‘FreeStore’, a completely free of charge, private clothing boutique and personal shopping service for minority communities experiencing poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and abuse.
The shop, which is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, was opened earlier this month. Co-Founder of Another World, Becky Bellamy, said they're "thrilled beyond words" to open their permanent home.
She added: "Whether swapping or bagging a £10 bargain, we have had phenomenal support for our swap concept with the most beautiful garments being brought in for another person to enjoy. It’s said that more than 30% of our wardrobes go unworn, so this way people can bring it all in to us and get something back for them and help their community at the same time.”
Another World Belfast’s partner charities include The Rainbow Project, Cara friend, Here NI, Women’s Aid, Flourish NI and Anaka Collective. Every £30 spent in store or donated pays for a person to visit the FreeStore.
Leo Lardie from The Rainbow Project added: "My favourite thing about the SwapShop/FreeStore is that it provides that fun and exciting shopping experience even for those who can't afford to shop on the high street.
"The store has such a warm friendly atmosphere that I think anyone would feel welcome to be there. I know they're very passionate about knowing and helping the whole community in Belfast, but certainly from my own personal experience the LGBTQIA+ community.
"The events they've held in partnership with us have been fantastically fun and affirming for our service users, staff and even their own volunteers.”
For more information on how to shop, swap or lend a hand yourself visit anotherworldbelfast.com or search @anotherworldbelfast on social.
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