EMPOWERING PEOPLE AND PROTECTING THE PLANET
In 2012, founder of Thread Together Andie Halas, saw the potential for unsold new clothing to be given to people in need, whilst also protecting the environment by saving these items from landfill.
Today, Thread Together clothes thousands of people across the country every week, partnering with charities and social service agencies to distribute it to people doing it tough.
At Romy we are proud partners of Thread Together. Emma, our Creative Director, recently visited the Thread Together team at their Sydney HQ and sorting facility. Together, we’re tackling two issues with one solution:
Keeping clothing in circulation
Fulfilling the those in need access to essential clothing
Below, Emma unpacks why Romy’s relationship with Thread Together is so meaningful.
What inspired you to become a donor to Thread Together, and how does this partnership align with Romy's values?
Our support for Thread Together was inspired by their efforts to provide brand new clothing to women in need, a cause that resonates deeply with me. Romy’s core values of giving back and kindness align perfectly with this mission, as both prioritise building confidence and empowering women through tangible acts of support.
Can you share any specific experiences/stories that motivated you to support Thread Together?
Reflecting on my childhood, I remember a challenging time when my parents separated, and my mum, my sister and I moved to my Mum’s hometown of Brisbane with little financial support. Local charities provided us with crucial assistance like food vouchers. Although I was too young to fully appreciate it then, those experiences have fueled my desire to give back, and supporting Thread Together is a way to do that.
How do you see Romy's involvement with Thread Together impacting the community it serves?
Romy’s involvement with Thread Together will impact the community by offering brand new clothing to women in need, providing hope and optimism. This initiative is about more than just clothing; it’s about touching lives and building hope, helping to restore confidence and dignity to those facing difficult circumstances.
What role do you believe the fashion industry should play in addressing social and environmental issues like those targeted by Thread Together?
The fashion industry has struggled with significant waste for many years. Instead of excess inventory sitting unused in warehouses or ending up in landfills, it can be redirected to positive causes like Thread Together. Brands have the opportunity to leverage their resources and influence to support sustainable practices and charitable initiatives. By doing so, they ensure a positive contribution to both society and the environment, promoting circularity and reducing waste.
What future initiatives or collaborations are you excited about between Romy and Thread Together?
Looking ahead, I’m excited about future initiatives and collaborations between Romy and Thread Together. It is my aim to continue our clothing donations as well as support them through Romy team volunteering days at their Sydney sorting facility, which will further strengthen our relationship and foster a deeper connection between our team and the community. Additionally, I'm looking forward to exploring new ways to amplify our impact, such as collaborative events and awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of sustainable fashion and social responsibility.
Find out more about the organisation at threadtogether.org