Oldham pulls together again for the Winter Wardrobe Appeal 2025

Following the success of last year’s winter clothes appeal, the Council’s Community Wardrobe Oldham and Oldham Family Hubs are again uniting to support local families during the colder months.

Community Wardrobe Oldham (CWO) is rolling out its Winter Wardrobe event 2025, teaming up with Oldham Family Hubs to provide free winter coats and snuggly clothing for children who need a little extra help to stay warm. 

The CWO launched from founder Sally Maher's shed in 2022 in memory of her best friend Emma Jones (pictured centre below with Sally on the left and friend Lynne Sinkinson on the right), who collects new and second hand good quality clothing and redistributes it to families who need it. 

The project, which is run by local volunteers, has helped more than 18,000 children across the borough and it provides free clothing rails in each of the Family Hubs.  

Last year, those in need of support were equipped for winter with three drop-ins at Spring Meadows Family Hub, Medlock Vale Family Hub and Beever Family Hub. 

While picking out items at the drop-ins, such as duvets and cosy pyjamas, parents were signposted to the activities and services available to them at the Family Hubs. They provide a range of support to families of children aged 0-19, and 25 with SEND, across the borough. 

This year, the initiative is back with another special Winter Wardrobe event at Shaw Family Hub, on High Street from 10am-12pm on Friday, October 10. 

The event is free and open to families who may benefit from a little extra support this winter. They can have a browse and collect warm winter essentials in a welcoming and friendly environment. 

Founder Sally said: “At Our Community Wardrobe Oldham, we’re proud to help ensure that every baby and child has a warm place to sleep and that families in need can access pre-loved clothing. 

"Our mission is to keep pre-clothing clothing circulating in our local community and to help others. It’s about giving a little extra support to those who need it most and showing that our community truly cares for one another.” 

Councillor Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and that means making sure they have the essentials they need to grow, learn and thrive. 

"The Winter Wardrobe initiative is a shining example of how Oldham’s community spirit makes this possible, helping to ensure that no child faces the colder winter months without a coat or warm duvet, and giving families the support they need to build a brighter future." 

Anyone wishing to make a donation to the Winter Wardrobe appeal can email the Community Wardrobe Oldham at ocwoldham@outlook.com or call 07759 139 930.