A Dundee-based charity opened a groundbreaking new fashion shop for the city’s homeless today.
The Clothesline Project is a modern take on the traditional charity shop which aims to remove the stigma from homelessness.
The “boutique-style” store provides free clothes to the homeless but aims to give “shoppers” a more relaxed and welcoming experience than they would get elsewhere.
It is hoped that by helping homeless people find new clothes, it can help them find a job and off the streets.
Damian McGowan, Gowrie Care managing director said: “After a very successful pilot in Edinburgh, we are delighted to be opening our first Clothesline shop in Dundee.
“This fashionable boutique offers free clothing to the people we support in and around Dundee in a setting far removed from the stuffy and crammed traditional charity shop or clothes bank many people are accustomed to.”
Liz Cairns, Gowrie Care project manager, who was responsible for launching the Dundee branch, saidd: “The service is relaxed, spacious and stylish. We want visitors to enjoy their ‘shopping’ experience and not feel rushed or claustrophobic while they find the clothes they need for their important event.
“Many of our clients can’t afford new a new suit for a job interview or the appropriate clothing to attend an event through Clothesline we aim to change this.”
Mr McGowan added: “Gowrie Care supports people with a range of needs and disabilities of varying complexities and the Clothesline Project is just one example of how we meet and often exceed the needs of the people we support.”
Clothing donations to Gowrie Care’s Clothesline Project can be made at the Hillcrest’s Scottish headquarters in Dundee Technology Park or at their Craigowl office on South Ward Road.