As promised, I'm sharing my first article about Kledingbank de Kempen. They were just starting out in their garage in Reusel. That's where I know the owners, and I'm always touched by their story. They could have chosen to start something that would earn them some extra money to help themselves, but instead, they chose to dedicate themselves to something they don't earn a cent from, and it helps so many others. That's why it's one of my favorite charities. Back then, it was called Kledingbank de Pardax, but the name changed because they started collaborating with other organizations. Read their story below, and maybe you'll understand why I find it so touching:

Clothing bank de Pardax

What do you do when you're faced with setback after setback while trying so hard to achieve things? Tabitha and Ingmar choose to put their shoulders to the wheel despite everything. They only think, "What can I do to make things better, and how am I going to get through this?" instead of "Why is this happening to me?" With four children, a lot of setbacks, and illness, they manage to get by, and on top of that, they choose to dedicate themselves to others without expecting anything extra from it. Even though they could certainly use it. "For us, it's a small gesture, but for them, a great gift," Tabitha and Ingmar say.

Background

Tabitha and Ingmar know all too well what it's like to face financial hardship. "We've been through a lot," says Tabitha. Despite all the setbacks, they always manage to find a solution to overcome them. Tabitha herself still suffers from kidney disease, and Ingmar has back problems. This naturally results in the necessary costs and challenges, but they don't shy away from them and find a way to overcome them. Eventually, Ingmar and Tabitha moved to Reusel and bought the house known from the Strawberry Lady. However, that house was very old and in need of renovation. No problem, because they had already found a good contractor for another project. What they didn't know was that this time the contractor was making mistakes: poor quality, incorrect measurements, and ultimately, not finishing the house. As a result, they found themselves in financial trouble and had to make a new plan to get out of it. Not only does it mean taking a step back from your basic needs such as food and drink, but you also have to look at where you can save and make every euro count.

Tabitha says she was shocked that so many people still have to go to the food bank. Their plan has revised everything, from food to savings on clothing. You can't see it from the outside, but so many people are struggling. That man or woman standing next to you in line at the supermarket checkout could easily end up going to the food bank and having to turn down their children when they actually need a new winter coat. Options are limited, and the only clothing banks nearby are in Eindhoven and Tilburg, which are difficult for many people to reach. It's not easy. "But we can't complain, because we're very happy despite all the problems," concludes Ingmar.

More than a clothing bank

Many people who experience financial hardship also find their social circle shrinking. People you thought you could rely on let you down, and ultimately, only a select group of people remains whom you can truly count on. Tabitha and Ingmar want to address this aspect as well by creating an experience and a moment of social contact accessible to everyone. You can go there to donate clothes, swap clothes, or pick them up, but also for a cup of coffee and a friendly chat. They want to maintain circulation, which is also more sustainable. They've already received many donations and are currently mainly busy sorting and selecting clothes that are still in good condition, or still good to wear after repairs. They're also working hard to secure a building, which then needs to be made ready for use as a retail space. They still need sponsors and, of course, clothing donations. You can read more about their organization on the Facebook page of 'Kledingbank de Pardax' and soon on their website!