Recycling School Uniforms

Saturday 21st of July 2007 05:28:14 AM

Since most school age children grow out of their uniforms before the clothes themselves become worn, there is a growing concern in many UK communities that clothing is being wasted when it is not being reused. Another concern is the cost of new uniforms, which many parents have a difficult time trying to pay for especially if they have more than one child. But buying recycled clothing cuts down on these costs and helps reduce the amount of waste.

Oxfam, a charity that raises money to help all children throughout the world receive an education, recently started a recycled clothing drive that those in primary schools and high schools in East Renfrewshire, UK can participate in. Many children in these schools have already donated items from their lost and found boxes and uniforms that no longer fit.

"The donations we have received so far have been terrific, as has the response from people in the area. Schools from all over the neighbourhood have been a great help; they have donated clothes from lost property and helped to make parents aware of what we are doing," said Liz Sim, Clarkston shop manager. Clarkston is one of the areas that is participating in the campaign.

Oxfam hopes to prove that people will buy recycled uniforms at a reduced price. The organisation also hopes to prove its point about children growing out of uniforms quickly through the number of pieces they collect from children and parents. For parents who cannot afford new clothing for their children, this is one alternative that can help.