Could you last a month without buying anything new?
That’s the challenge The St Vincent de Paul Society Vinnies Shops are asking Victorians to try this October, as part of Vinnies’ Buy Nothing New Month (VBNN).
Vinnies Victoria commercial services executive general manager Jeff Antcliff said VBNN was designed as an annual circuit breaker in peoples’ buying habits.
“It’s a reminder that with a little extra time and care, buying pre-loved items can bring immeasurable joy to our lives and provide a meaningful connection to the circular economy too,” Mr Antcliff said.
The role of Vinnies stores has been amplified as the cost of living crisis deepens and people turn to charities for the help they need day-to-day.
“We are expecting significant traction with Vinnies’ Buy Nothing New Pledge this year,” Mr Antcliff said.
“With inflationary pressures pushing up the cost of living, on every front, people are desperately seeking ways to stretch their budgets – and concurrently, to be proud of how they are contributing to addressing urgent macro environmental issues like escalating landfill.”
It’s easy to get involved too – simply head to your local Vinnies Shop and commit to the pledge by purchasing reused goods. If you’re on social media, spread the word, and share an image of what you’ve scored with the hashtag #VBNN and #foundatvinnies.
Scott Marsen from the Sunbury Vinnies and west senior area manager said supporting Vinnies also supports the most vulnerable people in the community.
“The money goes to electricity bills, housing, schooling, and vouchers in the shops as well, to come in and purchase items,” Mr Marsden said.
“I love Vinnies. To this day it continues to surprise me what I see come through the doors.
“It’s not only about what we receive, we’ve also got that place where people come, become volunteers, make lifelong friends, we help people out mentally as well and keep their minds active.
“It’s a place to have a laugh as well.”
Elsie Lange
