From Prada to Paint-Stained: Tales from the Sorting Frontline

3 Goodgymers helped their local community in Bexley
Maria Howard
Simon Davidson
Caroline Purdy-Valentine
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Bexley

Monday 23rd June

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Simon Davidson
Simon Davidson

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We were back at the Community Hospice warehouse this morning from 10am to 1pm for another stint of clothes sorting.

Andrew was the staff member on duty today—always friendly and efficient. He welcomed us and spent some time showing the new Goodgym volunteer, Maria, the ropes as it were. Caroline and I are feeling like the veterans now on our fifth clothing sorting expedition.

Soon we were back into the usual rhythm: sifting through bag after bag of donated clothes. As always, it was indeed a mixed bag—literally and figuratively. Some people clearly go the extra mile, delivering beautifully laundered and even ironed clothes folded to perfection. Others, not so much.

One bag in particular stood out: a pile of jeans absolutely splattered in white paint. I found myself wondering who on earth imagines these are still usable. Into the rag bag they went.

I found another item that to me wasn't immediately obvious what it was. Then I realised it was what you might call a 'sports balaclava'. Something you might wear running in cold weather conditions or perhaps use for more nefarious purposes!

As usual, the time passed quickly and I believe we all felt it was a satisfying mission with a good work done. Congratulations on your first ever GoodGym task, Maria 🥳.

Simon


This task supported

If you need a 1940s dress or a 1950s drinks bar, then No 16 is the place to go. Opened in 2013 the shop brings together antique and retro furniture, homeware and clothing under one roof. The site also houses the main warehouse for sorting donations.

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