Big Brothers Big Sisters are launching clothing donation drop boxes that will be placed outside businesses to collect gently used clothing and linens.
With the support of Rotary Club of Duncan and donations supplied by Home Depot along with volunteer hours, clothing donation boxes have been built.
“We are very excited to be placing the clothing donation boxes out in our community and funds generated will support our mentoring programs,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters executive director Erin Generous. “The program helps to keep gently used clothing out of landfills while supporting local programming to support children and youth in our community.”
The Rotary Club of Duncan, when asked to assist the Big Brothers Big Sisters in getting this worthy project off the ground, took the idea to the Home Depot in Duncan who were quick to join in with the materials to see the first five boxes built.
“It’s great when you can bring together a service organization like our Rotary Club and a community minded business partner like Home Depot to make things happen for a group that has a need,” said Corrine Thompson, president of the Rotary Club of Duncan. “Many times it is not only about cash donations these groups need, but rather volunteer time and materials. Our club loves to be involved with projects like that that benefit our community.”
On Thursday, Oct. 15 the first box was placed at Island Savings Chemainus Branch. Community members are encouraged to visit the Island Savings branch in Chemainus and drop off gently used clothing items. Four additional locations will be revealed shortly, please check Big Brothers Big Sisters website at www.bbbscowichan.ca or Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Cowichan Valley Facebook page. Big Brothers Big Sisters are currently looking for an additional three locations to host these boxes. The boxes are on wheels and can be easily moved and placed in a dry indoor or outdoor area for the community to access during business hours.
“We are thankful Island Savings, our In School Mentoring sponsor, is hosting the first box, and we appreciate their ongoing community support,” said Generous. “Without the support of the local Rotary Club of Duncan and the Duncan Home Depot we would not have been able to make this project come to fruition, for that we are very grateful.”
To learn more about the Big Brothers Big Sisters Clothing Donation Program contact the office at 250-748-2447.