Swap for Good This Month

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October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and what better way to help support victims of domestic violence by getting some new (old) clothes?

Thanks to Swap for Good, a grassroots non-profit project encouraging people across the country to host clothing swaps, you can have some fun, support those in need and yes, even get new clothes.  At the site you can put in your zip code to see where the closest shelter is to you and get tips on how to plan your swap.

The site says during the recession, requests for help from domestic violence shelters has skyrocketed, while funding has plummeted. According to The National Network to End Domestic Violence just in March 2010, in one 24-hour period alone, more than 65,000 victims of domestic violence and their children received life-saving services from local domestic violence programs. Domestic violence experts answered more than 23,000 emergency hotline calls. In one day, 9,280 requests for services went unmet, largely due to lack of funding.

“Fashionistas have long known that clothing swaps are a great way to get new stuff, and save money doing it. Now, people can host swap events as a way to help raise critical funds for a good cause. This year spring cleaning is an opportunity to do more than clean out your closet – you can help save lives,” said Swap for Good co-founder Orli Cotel.

And for the double whammy eco-goodness of this, Swap for Good wants you to consider the environmental footprint of your clothes.

“The good news is that the water, dyes, energy, and pesticides (for cotton) that go into making new clothes are all reduced when you trade with a friend rather than buying something new. As part of this project, we hope to introduce more people to “˜freecycling’ – which is better for the planet as well as your wallet,” says the site.

Looking for a themed party to do some good? Here’s your answer. For more information on how to host a party go here to the site.

Amy DuFault

Amy DuFault is a conscious lifestyle writer, consultant and fashion instigator. She resides in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.