Plea to donate unwanted clothes as Milton Keynes gears up for Second Hand September
Second Hand September is back and Milton Keynes Oxfam is hoping it’ll be one of the busiest times of the year for local shoppers and donations.
Oxfam has launched its Second Hand September campaign, encouraging shoppers to only buy pre-loved items and donate anything they no longer use.
Staff and volunteers at Stony Stratford’s Oxfam shop are asking people to consider donating anything they haven’t worn for the past year, and to pop in for a browse.
Manager Angie Thomas, says: “There’s so much choice when it comes to second-hand shopping now, but you still can’t beat going into a charity shop and having a good browse.
“Charity shops like ours help give clothes a second life and are an important way of tackling fast fashion. We depend on the local community to keep our shelves full, so we’re always grateful to everyone who donates and shops with us. We’d love to see some new faces this September.”
Actor Richard E. Grant will be appearing on Oxfam posters in shops across the UK this September as he encourages people across the region to discover original second-hand style, give garments a longer life and make their fashion choices count.
Richard said: “I’m supporting Second Hand September because we’ve already got too much of everything. Reusing and upcycling clothing - second hand, vintage, call it what you like – is an amazing, worthwhile cause.
“Original style isn't about buying more. It's about finding pieces with a story, keeping them for as long as you can, and passing them on for someone else to discover.”
Oxfam launched Second Hand September in 2019 with the aim of inspiring people to shop in a way that is kinder to people and the planet.
Rachel Cosgrove-Pearce, Oxfam’s Head of Retail Operations, said: “Every donation makes a difference, and while we’re grateful for the fantastic support we receive throughout the year, September is a particularly important time for our shops.
“Second Hand September is a brilliant reminder that small changes can have a big impact. By donating clothes you no longer wear or choosing to shop second hand, you’re helping to reduce textile waste, support Oxfam’s work and do something positive for the planet.
Stony Stratford Oxfam shop is open from 9.15am-4.45pm Monday to Saturday.
Rachel added: “If you’re in Milton Keynes we’d love to welcome you into your local Oxfam shop - whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re already a regular. And if you’ve been meaning to clear out your wardrobe, there’s no better time to pass on those quality items and help make a difference.”