How we work

Key to the Guild’s success is its efficient, decentralised and very personal structure — a network of area co-ordinators and assistants who manage their groups, often comprising friends and family. Donors include old-style ladies’ knitting circles and large corporates and all types in between

The process

Once a year, area co-ordinators for each suburb/group contact their members asking for a minimum of two new items of clothing and/or a financial contribution. Financial donations are used to buy school uniforms, blankets, nappies and the type of clothing not donated in large quantities. Donated clothes are collected by the area co-ordinators and brought on an appointed day to a central venue for sorting, counting and allocating.

SORT & DISTRIBUTION DAY

The clothes are sorted into different categories according to age and gender – thus, one team deals with baby’s clothes, another with women’s, men’s or boy’s, and so on. By collecting a wish list from each charity in advance and then through a system of designated “checkers”, who keep in regular contact with the charities, the Guild’s systems ensure that appropriate clothing reaches the right people.

How to help

Sourcing

Members sew, knit, crochet or buy new clothes, which are collected by their area co-ordinator.

Sorting

Donated clothes are collected by the area co-ordinators and brought to a central venue for sorting, counting and allocating.

Packing

Donations are packed and prepped to ensure appropriate clothing reaches the right charities.

Collection

Charities collect their donated clothing and blankets.

Distribution

The donated clothing and blankets are distributed by charities to people in need.

Who we support

Who We Are

The executive committee and all the workers are volunteers and so administrative costs are minimal. In this unique and efficient way, a large amount of clothing is distributed with a minimum of fuss and very limited overheads

The Committee

The executive committee, area co-ordinators and all the workers at Cape Town Clothing Guild are volunteers

Chairperson

Sarah Brooke

Treasurer

Jacqui Thomas

Secretary

Catherine Mitchell