Yorkshire charity pauses new enquiries until January 2027 and urges donations of preloved clothes
Donations needed by clothing charity
A Yorkshire charity is asking for donations of clothing ahead of the Christmas season.
The Clothing Bank, which donates preloved clothes directly to people in need across the UK, has announced it will pause taking on new people until January 2027 so that they can focus on those they have already promised help to.
The charity shared the news on Facebook this week and said the decision was not taken lightly, but is unavoidable as the team continues to support an overwhelming number of people living in clothing poverty.
Sally Parkinson, Co-Founder of The Clothing Bank said: “This isn’t a decision we’ve taken lightly.
"We’re pausing new enquiries until January 2027 because we need to look after the people we’ve already promised help to before Christmas.
"So many lovely people have already donated this year and we’re so grateful, but as the cost of living rises, so does the need.
"If your wardrobe is due a clear-out, please think of us.”
Men's, teenager’s and children's (any gender) clothing are the items The Clothing Bank finds hardest to get hold of.
With winter approaching, the charity is especially looking for coats, jackets, jumpers, trousers, socks, school uniforms and new or unused underwear.
All donations should be clean and in good condition. Donations of any gender, size and age are welcome.
People can donate at one of the charity's volunteer-run drop-off points.
The Clothing Bank is also appealing to clothes shops, brands and warehouses with stock they cannot sell to get in touch rather than send it to landfill.
The charity says donating surplus stock supports local communities and could genuinely transform the lives of people in need right now.
Sally added: “If you’re sitting on stock you can’t sell, please don’t send it to the tip. Think of us instead.
"Surplus clothing could genuinely transform the lives of so many people who need it right now, and it keeps good clothes in use and in your local community.”
The Clothing Bank volunteers collect, sort and hand donated clothes directly to families, young people, people in shelters and others in need.
Nearest drop-off points can be found at https://theclothingbank.org.uk/locations/