The 5th Annual Clothing Swap, hosted by Reilly Stead and Rebecca Murray, is set to take place on February 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Downtown Coldwell Banker office, 169 Christina St. N. The event will raise funds for St. Joseph’s Hospice, with clothing donations benefitting local organizations, including the Inn of the Good Shepherd, the Women’s Interval Home, and The Haven Youth Shelter.
“We’re incredibly excited to host this clothing swap because it’s an opportunity to bring our community together in support of local charities that make a real difference,” said Stead and Murray. “By donating gently used clothing, attendees can help provide essential resources to those in need while also participating in a sustainable, fun event. We believe that when we work together, we create a stronger, more compassionate community.”
The event features a $25 entry fee, which includes 10 clothing items, and additional attractions like a 50/50 draw, live music by Jay Allan, a pop-up bar from Shale Ridge Ciders, and charcuterie provided by Honey Combs Charcuterie. Meld Jewelry will also offer permanent jewelry on-site, donating a portion of sales to St. Joseph’s Hospice.
Stead and Murray shared how the swap has grown since its launch in 2018, raising $1,170 for the Women’s Interval Home in its first year, $1,500 for the Huron House Boys Home in 2019, and $2,027 for the Inn of the Good Shepherd in 2024. “It’s tough to put a number on the total amount of clothes donated over the years, but it’s safe to say it’s hundreds of bags,” said Murray. “Last year alone, we filled two vehicles and a trailer to the brim!”
The organizers also take care to ensure donations are distributed to meet specific needs in the community. “For example, this year the best women’s wear will go to the Mission Thrift Shop to benefit the Women’s Interval Home,” Murray explained. “We’ll also invite the Inn to take what they need, and the more youthful items will be reserved for the Haven.”
Murray highlighted the effort involved in sorting and distributing clothing, adding, “My favorite memory was dropping off 17 bags of clothing to the Haven last year. Their surprise and gratitude made all our hard work worthwhile.”
Donation drop-offs are being accepted ahead of the event at two locations: Downtown Coldwell Banker at 169 Christina St. N. and Uptown Coldwell Banker at 780 Exmouth St. Donations can be made Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Accepted items include men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, footwear, outerwear, maternity wear, bags, and accessories.
Proceeds from the event will benefit St. Joseph’s Hospice, while donated clothing will support the Inn of the Good Shepherd, the Women’s Interval Home, and The Haven Youth Shelter.
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