As the new year inspires families to declutter and simplify their lives, the Umhlanga Women’s Association is encouraging the community to turn that process into an act of compassion by donating pre-loved items to a project that changes lives daily.
Through its Green Goddess Project, the association collects quality pre-loved goods at its Green Goddess Space at Park Square in Umhlanga. Located at 11 Park Avenue, across from Chris Saunders Park, the initiative is rooted in sustainability, empowerment and care for vulnerable communities, ensuring donated items are reused rather than wasted.
According to project leader Sunitha Emrith, they accept both eastern and western clothing and welcome donations of ladies’ wear, menswear, and children’s and baby clothing. She said: “Household items including linen, blankets, towels, homeware, dishes and crockery are also welcomed. All donations are carefully sorted, priced and sold either at fundraising sales or online.”
She added that funds raised play a vital role in sustaining the UWA Community Kitchen, which operates in Umhlanga and feeds hundreds of people every weekday. Run by dedicated volunteers and supported by donors, the kitchen serves nearby underprivileged communities with the belief that no one should go hungry.
In addition to supporting the community kitchen, proceeds contribute to a wide range of outreach initiatives. These include sanitary pad donation drives, mental health awareness programmes, gender-based violence projects, support for children’s hospitals, disaster relief efforts and other urgent community needs.
Items that do not sell are never discarded. Instead, they are used in the association’s “Business in a Bag” initiative, an entrepreneurial project that allows women to purchase a bag of clothing at minimal cost and resell the items for a profit, enabling them to generate income and support their families.
Emrith coordinates donations, volunteers and outreach efforts. The association appeals for volunteers to assist with sorting and pricing. “While youth and senior volunteers have already made a valuable contribution, additional helping hands are always needed,” she said.
The Green Goddess Space is open every Monday and Friday from 10am to 1pm for drop-offs. Collections can be arranged for those unable to deliver.
For more information, to donate or to volunteer, contact Sunitha Emrith on 079 916 5007 or email info@umhlangawa.co.za. Follow the Umhlanga Women’s Association on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or visit www.umhlangawa.co.za.
This year, a cleared cupboard could mean a full plate, a new opportunity or a fresh start for someone in need.
