Venture helps build clothes sharing links in community

A NEW sustainable clothing initiative set up by a Crumlin woman, is cleverly tapping into a number of important current issues facing society including, the cost of living, climate change, reducing landfill material, and the need to forge better community links.

Mary Fleming started Change Clothes Crumlin (CCC) in Summer 2022, and operates it with Oileán Carter Stritch, Community Engagement Manager.

With a little bit of funding, they host events to build clothes sharing links between people in the Dublin 12 community.

Updates on events and further information are detailed on CCC’s beautifully designed website, their social media channels and users have also subscribed to their newsletter.

Not only can people find clothes at a good price, but they can also re-learn useful mending skills with Fleming an avid stitcher.

The hub’s connection to sustainability is important for Fleming, who estimates CCC saved approximately 19.38 tonnes of carbon in just three months of operation last year.

“It fits into the circular economy and also the cost of living.

“ Basically you can get a new wardrobe for €5, save some money and have fun.

“It is very enjoyable,” said Mary.

It is still early days for the venture, which started out as a pilot scheme, but the hub has already received glowing press from the likes of RTE and the Irish Times.

“We have been lucky to get good press, but we are still finding out what people need,” said Mary.

CCC is an evolving project, hosts monthly meet and swaps, and also workshops.

However, a slight snag in the venture at the moment is the recent closure of St Marys parish hall in Crumlin, which needs a roof repair.

“It just closed last week, that’s where we were hosting our meets, so we will have to try and find somewhere else nearby,” said Mary.

“Finding venues is a big task, to try and find one that is affordable, and make sure it is in Crumlin.

“This is very much a community event.

“We have had a lot of retention with people who have been to previous events.

“We would rather not segregate people, but we did host a first plus size swap a few weeks ago.

“Just to let people know it was there.”

Looking ahead, Fleming wants to build awareness of the venture for men and older people, who may not be on social media.

The goals for the next few years is to build on the work already done, and develop local partners for expansion.

Check their social media or visit the website HERE for further information.