Families in South Tyneside are set to benefit from KEY2Life Food Bank’s annual free school uniform exchange once again this summer holidays.
The long-established scheme provides families with free school uniform for their children, whatever their circumstances, and aims to encourage people to recycle and donate old school uniform rather than throwing out.
The cost of buying school uniform can really add up so the Uniform Exchange is a fantastic way to save money. Reusing school uniform also cuts down landfill waste so it’s good for the environment too.
Donations of outgrown uniform for South Tyneside schools, clean and in good condition, including coats and shoes, can be dropped off at KEY2life, from Monday 2 August, to be sorted and displayed by its small army of volunteers – any spare clothes hangers and strong carrier bags that people might have would also be appreciated.
From Monday 9 August, families can book a 30-minute appointment to browse and select what’s available, bringing their own shopping bag(s) wherever possible. Longer appointments are available for larger families, shopping for more than two children.
Alternatively, families can simply contact KEY2Life passing on their requests (school, items and sizes required), volunteers will then check and advise what’s in stock and bag ready for collection.
KEY2Life is located at Boldon Lane Library, Boldon Lane, South Shields, NE34 0LZ and open 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday. To contact KEY2Life: call 07833 613 393 or DM their Facebook page (@key2lifesouthtyneside).
Jo Benham Brown, Business Development and Communities Manager at KEY Project, said: “Our eagerly anticipated annual school uniform exchange really is a win-win for South Tyneside families – parents or carers can recycle, save cash and help other families. The uniform is free for all, you don’t have to be on benefits, so please get in touch to book your appointment. As always, our stock, organised by our wonderful team of corporate volunteers – courtesy of BT South Tyneside- depends on what we have received, so please do check back if you can’t find what you need initially.”