Because of the importance of the Clothing Bank, the organization quickly started looking for something new and asked the municipality for help. “We don’t have a property to offer whether it was suitable,” says alderman Jeroen Westendorp. “But we did use our network. We are in contact with many social institutions and something has come out of that.”
They found help with real estate entrepreneur Wim Annen, who makes his property available for a year. “I think it’s important that such an initiative can get a place, that’s why I did this,” he says. The building was first used for the issue point for Ukrainians. But that point has since been lifted. “They can now get stuff at the shelters in Hoogeveen itself, so it was no longer necessary,” adds Westendorp.
They are happy with the location, despite the fact that it is a temporary contract. “It’s a bit smaller, but the point is that we can at least do our work again. And that’s possible in this way, we think that’s the most important thing,” explains volunteer Willy Timmer.
They will officially open to customers tonight. “From December 28, we have already been moving the Clothing Bank to this location. Now we are all ready for a rest, other volunteers can do the work tonight” Willy laughs. “I’m going to sleep well later,” Bea adds.