URGENT UPDATE: Australians are urged to act now as an astonishing $25 billion worth of unworn clothing languishes in wardrobes nationwide. Recent research by the Australian Red Cross and Uber highlights a staggering 231 million garments sitting idle—enough to fill 139 swimming pools or 42 football fields.
This eye-opening statistic comes as Australia embarks on its annual clothing drive, currently underway in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. As of 4 PM today, October 14, 2023, the initiative has already collected 27,000 kg of donated garments, emphasizing the urgent need for community participation.
“We are holding onto billions of dollars worth of clothes that can be helping people in need,” said Richard Wood, a spokesperson for the Australian Red Cross. Volunteers are actively sorting through donations, aiming to stock Red Cross shops that directly fund humanitarian programs for vulnerable communities.
The drive, now in its seventh year, has partnered with Uber to eliminate barriers to donating clothes. The convenience of free Uber pickups for pre-loved garments is intended to encourage more Australians to contribute. “Every item helps stock our Australian Red Cross Shops,” Wood added, showcasing the direct impact donations have on local communities.
In a recent survey of 2,000 Australians, it was revealed that almost two-thirds of respondents would donate more if the process were easier. However, many still face challenges. Over a third admitted to leaving clothes outside donation centers after hours, aware that they might be discarded. Nearly one in five acknowledged donating items that were not suitable for resale.
“Our busy lives often make convenience the missing link in donating clothes,” said Emma Foley, head of Uber Australia. The drive is not only about collecting clothes; it’s about fostering a culture of giving and ensuring that valuable items do not go to waste.
As the clock ticks down, Australians are encouraged to use the Uber app for free collection until the drive ends today. “We see the impact these donations make every day, and all Aussies can be a part of this,” Wood emphasized.
With approximately 88 tonnes of clothing expected to be collected during the 2024 drive, the urgency for immediate action cannot be overstated. This initiative not only aids those in need but also serves as a crucial reminder of the excess in Australian wardrobes.
Now is the time for individuals to clear out their unworn items and contribute to a cause that benefits the entire community. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference—participate in the drive before it closes at 4 PM today.
