A change is gonna come | Auckland News | Local News in Auckland

Rebecca Blithe tries a clothes exchange that's turning lives around.

A new dress, there's nothing like it. When you've had a bad day, it can be just the ticket to curb despair, if only for a moment. However, sometimes, a snotty shop assistant and hefty price tag only add to your sorry state.

Not so at the North Shore Women's Centre in Glenfield. In a convivial setting, with a couch, a coffee and smiling faces, women can shop for that cathartic garment and forget about their credit card: payment by cardigan, or coat, is how it's done here.

The centre's recently established clothing exchange scheme gives women an opportunity to clear out and revamp their own and their children's wardrobes.

For single mum Steph Wheaton, 19, the clothes have been a tremendous help to her and her 5-month-old son, Cailin. "I can bring in his stuff that's still in a useable condition and swap it for things that will fit. They grow so fast, just from one week to the next."

The calibre of the women's clothing brought in has also impressed Steph, who volunteers at the centre. "There's been some really dressy work stuff and designer stuff. There was a $115 shirt with the tag still on it," she says. "Women come in and they're stoked, especially with the jeans. Some things at secondhand stores are still quite expensive, like $60 for a pair of jeans. It's a lot."

Centre manager Kaira Marsh says the response has been fantastic with bags full of clothing in and out each week. "My fear was that we might get fleeced, but it just hasn't happened," she says. "Most women who come in are swapping the clothes. They love the idea of giving. It sounds so corny but it really is heartwarming."

Since the exchange scheme began in July, it's been found that women are picking up more than a new shirt. The centre is a place for women to make new friends and use a range of services such as free legal advice, walking groups and classes in healthy eating on a budget. "Generally, we see women who are going through changes.

"There are a lot of women facing job loss, relationships ending, families breaking up. We see a lot of isolated women," says Ms Marsh.

Steph agrees it can be hard to meet others. "People aren't connecting the same. You used to be able to just go and talk to your neighbours. People are too busy with work."

But the clothing exchange scheme is a great drawcard for women to the centre, says Steph. "You come in and then you see that there are so many things on. It's a great way to meet people."

Changing attire

Would you would like to donate any pre-loved women's or children's clothing? The
North Shore Women's Centre is open 9am- 3pm weekdays at 5 Mayfield Rd, Glenfield.