A Street Store in Somerset West helped the local homeless community shop for warm winter clothing; items were made available for each person to select.
Somerset West, South Africa (05 July 2022) – The Somerset West Night Shelter celebrated a Street Store event at the end of June, giving people in need the opportunity to shop for some warm clothing. This concept goes a long way in restoring dignity to people who have faced hardship.
The Street Store is a fantastic concept that welcomes destitute citizens to shop for warm winter clothing at no expense to themselves, all the while being able to retain their dignity and select items of clothing that are perfect for them in terms of fit and personal style.
Being given the freedom of choice is one of the most empowering feelings. They say beggars can’t be choosers, but actually, they can! It creates a great deal of hope when someone who feels down and out has the opportunity to make a choice that is all their own.
The Street Store is the world’s first rent-free, premises-free, ‘pop-up clothing store’ for the destitute, found entirely on the street and stocked by donations. This initiative is based on the notion that those in need can shop at The Street Store for suitable clothing items – at no cost.
The Somerset West Night Shelter says the event was a huge success within the homeless community. The night shelter provides temporary shelter for single adults living on the streets in the Helderberg. Alongside the single adults shelter they run a second family dedicated shelter where they provide temporary ongoing support to family units.
“Our Homeless Community were blessed with being able to shop at a Street Store. Hundreds of items of clothing were chosen and claimed. Thank you Désiré the “go to lady” from ActionCoach for hosting this fantastic event.”
“The day was a HUGE success that was enjoyed by all – there were smiles all around”
You can find out how to host your own Street Store by visiting the website here.
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