New clothing bank launched for families in Cam and Dursley

GL11 Community Hub has started a monthly scheme named ‘Bank of Baby Stuff’ also known as BOBS. 

At sessions - which are usually held once a month on Friday’s - parents are able to donate, swap or take away free clothes and toys.

Organisers say they hope the scheme will help bridge the gap in child poverty, as well as promoting greener living through reuse and reducing waste.

Kath Redmond from GL11 said: “Many parents will have first-hand experience of the huge pile of outgrown children’s clothes and toys that quickly builds up, and the seemingly never ending need for new bundles to keep up with growth spurts.

“We want to make a difference for struggling families in our community, while thinking about sustainability. 

“So now local parents can join the recycling and reuse revolution by coming to BOBS at GL11  Community Hub, and donating, swapping, or just taking away what they need.”

BOBS is usually held on a Friday morning at GL11 Community Hub - coinciding with one of the charity’s weekly ‘Family Friday’ play sessions for under-5s.

It is next due to take place at GL11 from 10am to 12pm on Friday, March 22. 

One parent said: “This is really helping me out, my son is growing so quickly and I now have enough clothes for the next size.

 “It’s a great idea, I love recycling. We need more of these, and such a bonus that it’s all free. It’s a help for families at this time.”

The charity has also launched an appeal for the following items: 

• Maternity Clothes - all sizes
• Baby clothes - all sizes
• Baby/Cot - bedding
• Toddler clothes, shoes, coats, and winter wear

But due to lack of space, GL11 cannot accept these items:

• Cots, prams, pushchairs
• Highchairs
• Moses baskets
• Car seats
• Large toys - eg. play kitchens, garages etc