Tamara

Reducing Clothing Waste

Discover the vibrant passions that drive our BMA staff in their Personal Passions feature. Dive into the inspiring story that fuels their creativity and commitment to the community. Feel free to read an interview with them and see why they serve the community.

Please provide the name of the initiative cause and how long have you been involved?

I have volunteered with the Barn, a thrift store run by the Bermuda Hospitals Auxiliary, for approximately nine years.

Why did you choose to support it?

I originally got involved when my daughter started volunteering as a Candy Striper. She was shy, so asked if I would come along when she worked at the Barn. After she graduated and went away for university, I remained a committed volunteer and my own collections of thrift store items began.

Overall, what is the charitable organisation’s mission and how does it make a difference to the people/cause it aims to help?

The Barn is a charity that raises money for the hospital. It provides a service that allows residents to buy second-hand items from us for much less than the retail price. This is important because not everyone can afford retail prices. The sales then generate funds that the hospital uses to buy much-needed equipment. The thrift store is also good for the environment as we are recycling and repurposing items. Additionally, it gives our volunteers a sense of purpose as we bring our own individual talents and experiences to the table.

What is your specific contribution to the initiative/cause and how have you made an impact to the people/cause it aims to help?

I volunteer every Saturday, working to accept donations and place them in the appropriate location for the other volunteers to check and display for sale. Although most volunteers work behind the scenes sorting the merchandise, I also interact with the customers.

How does your charitable involvement align with the BMA’s core values?

This work is directly related to the BMA’s ‘We Care’ pillar as it involves giving back to the community, collaborating and caring for others so we can make a difference together. Everyone has the opportunity to make a contribution.