Urging residents of Hafnarfjörður to donate clothes and items

Let's get cracking and do some good deeds!

GETA – a charity is urging residents of Hafnarfjörður and others to donate clothing and items for a large-scale market for refugees, to be held on Saturday at the parish hall of Hafnarfjörður Church.

„The collection starts tomorrow evening, Thursday from 7-9 pm, and then we're collecting clothes and items from 12-9 pm all day Friday,“ says Ingunn Fjóla Ingþórsdóttir, managing director of GETA.  –  charity. But what is most needed?

Outdoor clothes for the children come in handy.

„We are always in need of coats, snowsuits and waterproofs. We often need small electrical appliances, rapid boilers, toasters and small blenders,“ she says.

„Wellies and boots for children. Toys. We accept everything, but these are the things we need most,“ says Ingunn, stressing that it's important for items to be clean and in one piece. „Don't bring anything with holes or tears. People are usually not in a position to repair items. It's best to think of it as if you were giving a gift to a friend,“ she says.

Expect a large number of refugees to enter the market.

Ingunn is expecting a large number of refugees at the market on Saturday. „400 came last year.“ Around 30 volunteers will be there on Saturday. „This is a major undertaking.“ This is the third time that GETA – Aid Association has organised this charity event, which has proven to be a hugely important way of getting clothes and items from the local community directly into the hands of refugees. A statement from GETA – Aid Organisation says that the arrangement is such that on arrival, the guests receive a certain number of vouchers which they can use to shop.

„This way, refugees can choose items and shop for what they need with respect and dignity, while feeling warmth and support from the community,“ it says.

•  Where can clothes and items be dropped off? The parish hall of Hafnarfjörður Church, Strandgata 49, 220 Hafnarfjörður
• When? Tomorrow, Thursday, from 7 pm - 9 pm, and from 12 pm - 9 pm on Friday.
• How does the collection work? Volunteers will be on hand to receive and sort items. Both individuals and businesses can donate items to the market. We welcome well-maintained used items as well as new ones.
• What items are collected? Clothing and shoes for all ages, toiletries, small household items and electrical appliances, as well as other small items for the home.