Super Swop Stop - The Free Op Shop
Super Swop Stop – the free op shop
By Brittany Ryan from Sustainable Taranaki
This story was prompted by Robyn herself, and I obliged. Since writing this story back at the start of March, Super Swop Stop has been covered by the Taranaki Daily News and also Seven Sharp. She is receiving an abundant amount of donations and is now seeking regular volunteers to help her with sorting. She is also asking for roofing iron, plywood, and/or building materials to help close in her space for the impending harsher weather conditions. If you can help, please contact Robyn or join her Facebook Group.
A treasure trove, a pataka kai for those in need, a library of clothes of any size – this is Super Swop Stop, the “free op shop.” Tucked away in the midst of a Spotswood neighborhood, one would drive right past. I did exactly that, on my bike anyway, and had to turn around. What I found moved me enough to share this strong undercurrent of manaakitanga, a perfect example of kind acts of generosity and aroha, uncovered in the most unassuming place.
Volunteer, Daniel, helping to organise the library of clothing bins, separated by size and type.
I walked down the drive to be greeted by the woman who started it all 10 years ago.
“Hello my name is Robyn. I run a free op shop from my car port (until one day I might be able to find and enclosed area) where I take in donated goods and give them away to the community to help out. I have stuff from clothes, shoes, books, and small household items. Bring something and take something in return.
In return, she asks for a swap of clothing or items no longer needed, although this is not compulsory. Whatever unmarred inventory is not cycled after one month, she donates to the local op shops and The Junction – Zero Waste Hub on Colson Road. The clothing that is stained or torn, Robyn cuts into squares and donates to local tyre shops who need rags.
She accepts most material items except furniture. Regular volunteers help to set up each open day and they begin sorting the clothing into labeled bins. This way if someone needs a size 12 pair of pants, or shoes for a 5-year-old, her team can quickly find and make a match. Not only does her system address a societal need, but it’s also a great way to keep perfectly good items out of landfill, and even cater to those people taking up the challenge of abstaining from new clothing purchases. She has returning customers and garage sale enthusiasts visit from all parts of the country.
Unaware of how many people her giving actually affects, I assure her there is a ripple effect and it’s magical. “Paying it forward is my payment,” she explains. Children can have wetsuits to go surfing, newborns can have brand, new handmade knits for winter, women who’ve left unstable relationships can clothe their children.
“I also get bread and other foods and give those away too.”
Robyn is also one of the regular givers behind the Marfell Pataka kai at the Community garden on Endeavor Street, which sees a heavy rotation every day.
I am open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday 10-1 operating from 41 Clearmont Crescent, New Plymouth.
Marfell Pataka Kai at the Community Garden on Endeavor Street
Read more about Taranaki opportunity shops, hospice shops, and second hand clothing options to support the ever-increasing movement of slow fashion and community support networks.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
