The Street Store: A Global Movement Transforming Lives Through Dignified Clothing Donations

For over a decade, The Street Store has been empowering homeless individuals worldwide by offering a dignified way to receive clothing. What began as a small initiative in Cape Town has grown into a global movement, with over 1,000 pop-up stores across various cities worldwide.

A Global Impact of Over One Million People

As the initiative celebrates its 11th year, The Street Store continues to emphasize mindful giving, sustainable fashion, and the transformative power of community-driven change. The initiative has clothed over one million people across Mexico, New Zealand, Ghana, India, Peru, Pakistan, Canada, and many other countries, bringing dignity to homeless individuals across all continents.

The Street Store’s pop-up model offers a unique experience where those in need can choose the clothes they want, providing them with a sense of empowerment and self-respect.

While the initiative started as a creative way to assist those in need, it has evolved into a platform raising awareness about the environmental impact of fashion waste. The Street Store promotes circular economies, encourages mindful giving, and advocates for sustainable fashion.

In partnership with Old Khaki, The Street Store launched the “Last Season Is So This Season” campaign. This initiative encourages people to rethink their old clothing and donate thoughtfully. By giving pre-loved clothing, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable fashion future and make a difference in the lives of others.

Fighting the Fashion Industry’s Environmental Impact

The fashion industry’s carbon footprint is a growing concern, with 1.2 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases attributed to the sector in 2024 alone. This number is expected to increase by 50% by 2030. Through initiatives like The Street Store, the movement hopes to combat this issue by promoting sustainable fashion and reusing clothing.

Old Khaki’s collaboration with The Street Store represents a step forward in how brand partnerships can amplify awareness and drive behavioural change. Old Khaki, a proudly South African brand, understands the socio-economic challenges facing many disadvantaged communities and is dedicated to helping.

How to Donate Clothing

To support the initiative, Old Khaki has set up clothing donation rails in selected stores, where customers are encouraged to donate their pre-loved clothing. Donations will be collected until 31 March and will be distributed to The Up&Up Group’s campuses in Cape Town and Johannesburg. These locations will stock the Street Stores, which will take place on 12 April.

In addition to receiving donations, Old Khaki will contribute a portion of its own merchandise to the Street Stores. A collaboration with Unilever will ensure attendees receive toiletries alongside their clothing.

A simple suit or shirt donated can mean the difference between a homeless individual being able to attend a job interview or not.

Donation Locations

The “Last Season Is So This Season” clothing drive runs until 31 March at the following Old Khaki stores:

Gauteng:

• Clearwater
• Eastgate
• Fourways
• Mall of Africa
• Menlyn Park

Western Cape:

• Blue Route
• Canal Walk
• Somerset West
• Table Bay
• Tygervalley

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