While you were getting dressed this morning, you most likely put on a bra without a second thought. Bras are an essential part of many women’s wardrobes, and they provide us with a simple sense of security and support as we go about our days. Yet for many women, purchasing new bras is not easily attainable.
More so, low income women, men, and children alike often do not have access to resources to regularly purchase new underwear, a basic necessity that is frequently overlooked.
In light of this disparity, we’ve partnered with the nonprofit organization The Undies Project and have donated more than 25,000 bras (valued at over $1 Million) to women in need in recent years. Donating bras from returns we receive, which are unworn bras, is the easiest way for us at Glamorise to give back with the resources we have.
Read our conversation below with The Undies Project co-presidents Laura Delaflor and Lucy Langley, and learn some simple ways you can help them make a difference for people in need.
What was the initial inspiration behind The Undies Project?
The inspiration to start helping to cover the basic human need of underwear amongst low income and homeless neighbors came to Lucy while volunteering at a food bank and clothing distribution center in her home town of Greenwich, Connecticut.
She realized that underwear was the most under-donated item of clothing and that for many underwear was a necessity, not a luxury. After talking with me [Laura], we both decided to try and cover this unmet need.
In the winter of 2014 we held our very first drive by asking friends and family to donate a pack of new underwear. The response was overwhelming and after a year of working under the umbrella of a local nonprofit, we resolved to become a 501(c) (3) to expand our support.
Besides bras, what are some other in-demand items?
The need for undergarments is huge and it's a year-round need. We are always in need of underwear in all sizes and styles for children, women, and men.
How can people get involved with your organization?
People can help by sending us donations of new undergarments to 10 Steep Hollow Lane, Cos Cob CT 06807, or shop from our Amazon Wish List. Another way to support us is by making The Undies Project their charity of choice on AmazonSmile. Amazon will donate 0.5% of eligible purchases to us. They can also make a monetary donation through our website and we can purchase underwear in bulk at wholesale prices.
How big is the community you serve?
Right now, we serve 25 organizations located in Lower Fairfield and Westchester Counties in Connecticut. These partner agencies help those who are homeless, living in shelters, and those on low income.
Is The Undies Project a local organization or do you work on a national level?
As a fairly new, totally volunteer-driven nonprofit, we have decided to first cover the local need, but who knows? Maybe we will keep growing at a steady pace and one day go national.
Having access to undergarments is a basic human need that far too many people in our own communities go without. Next time you’d like to help make a difference in the most fundamental way, consider donating to The Undies Project.
Author: Maeve Gesualdi
Last updated on: 8/4/21
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