Winter is approaching fast; the gushes of wind are piercingly cold. For some, this is the most dreaded time of year. Especially without the warm hug of a coat.
The cost of living crisis is real, many families struggle the most around winter as providing suitable clothing is a challenge along with funding nutritious, hot meals and heating. Do you pay for the ingredients for a satisfactory dinner or buy your child a coat to wear to school? This is an impossible decision some have to make.
It all escalated in late 2021 due to inflation. For the younger readers, this is when goods become more expensive, so in general, people buy less and save more. With the help of social media, buying second hand has become increasingly popular with apps like Vinted coming into the spotlight. Many people are either looking for a bargain or wanting a small side hustle. Though, this one company is trying to not just keep customers satisfied, but also the local community.
Think Vintage, located in North Cheam, is a company trying to make the world a better place. Not only do they take in preloved goods to resell (saving the environment), they give back to the community.
How do they do this?
Well if you “Need a coat? Take one. Want to help? Leave one”. Think Vintage receives a large amount of clothing, some of which is surplus so they are in a position to help people. They leave the coats outside their store, free for anyone to take, or for people to donate.
Paul Stiller (one of the owners) says that “It is a nice thing to do [...] It’s such a simple idea which hopefully others will do as well”. In a time when money is tight, this gives people flexibility and security.
This is such an amazing idea, as we all need to support each other. Simple actions like this make the world a significantly better place and encourage people to do good. When basic food is more costly, and energy bills are through the roof, many are affected; no one should have to deal with it alone. Donating is clearly one way to make someone's life better, Think Vintage have definitely got that message. But if donating is not an option, simply spreading kindness is the way to go.
