Local politicians and community groups in South Belfast have teamed up to create a uniform swap to help families amid the cost of living crisis.
Inspired by Paul Doherty's work at Foodstock in West Belfast, the South Belfast Uniform Swap aims to respond to challenges faced by people in the South of the city.
People are encouraged to drop off items of school uniforms ahead of a collection event that will take place on Saturday.
Read more: Cost of living: NI families face 'destitution' this winter
Cllr Gary McKeown said: "In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis and given the time of year, setting up a school uniform swap seemed the perfect fit, as so many families are facing massive bills heading into the new school year.
"We then became aware that our friends in Open Ormeau had a similar idea, so decided to team up to get things moving.
"The hope is that people will drop off items of school uniform over the next few days ahead of our collection event on Saturday. The more pieces we have, the more we can offer, so please donate items in a good condition if you can.
"Anyone who could use some pre-loved uniforms is welcome to drop by and see what is available on Saturday, and have a bit of craic too, as this is a real community-based initiative.
"We will open for collections this Saturday at Ballynafeigh Methodist Church Hall from 11am - 3pm."
Cllr Séamas de Faoite added: “Our local schools and churches in South Belfast have a long history of working together to support people. This is another example of that work continuing during a cost of living crisis that has put so much pressure on so many families.
"There are some MLAs who could learn from that partnership working to deliver for people who are struggling because of this crisis.”
Kerry Lynn from Open Ormeau said: “Now, more than ever, it’s great to see the community come together for the benefit of all. Good condition clothes shouldn’t be going in the bin, and people shouldn’t have to struggle to afford school uniforms for their kids. When the community comes together to respond to a need, it’s a win-win, for people and planet.”
People can stop by Cancer Focus on the Ormeau Road from 10am to 4pm on Friday, August 19 to drop-off school uniform items before picking up different items at the collection on Saturday.
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