Community-based nonprofit By using proceeds from thrift stores to fund various causes, Odd Garage Manila supports sustainable fashion.
Pre-owned goods are gathered by the nonprofit from independent sellers, small vintage and thrift stores, and put up for sale. A percentage of these sales are donated to various local partner foundations.
Additionally, Odd Garage Manila gathers clothing donations for Segunda Mana, and to date, over a thousand pieces of clothing have been donated.
The non-profit'sco-founder,Jessica Ordonez, tells Philstar.com that she first became interested in environmental sustainability in college and that her passion was further stoked while working for the World Wide Fund for Nature.
By dispelling the myth that buying used clothing is a sign of poor financial standing, Ordonez stated, "I saw thrifting as a way to bridge the gap between using fashion as a means of expression and addressing the global issue of clothing waste."
Since she believes that self-expression can foster confidence and a sense of identity, she continued, "I believe everyone should have a sustainable, affordable way to do this without judgment." This is why she felt that Odd Garage Manila's efforts are particularly significant.
The non-profit has been contributing to local foundations that support young women's health and children's education by using the proceeds from previous events.
Through the Binhi English Literacy Foundation and I Support the Girls Manila, Odd Garage Manila has contributed to the purchase of sanitary products for girls and the tuition for public school students.
Ordonez views the non-profit organization as a chance for thrift store patrons to network with fashionistas from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, in addition to helping those in need.