The autumn season at Gemini Park Bielsko-Biała started with the opening of this special venue. Resulting from a partnership between the Bielsko-Biała shopping center and the Śląskie Hospicjum dla Dzieci Foundation, the charity shop “ŚWIETLIKOWO – TO I OWO” was established. This is the first store of its kind in Gemini Park Bielsko-Biała and the first location featuring the foundation’s own charity offerings. Proceeds from the sale of used children’s clothing and toys will support the foundation’s work with terminally ill children.

Charitable shopping isn’t the only way to contribute to the “ŚWIETLIKOWO – TO I OWO” initiative. The store also aims to collect items from individuals who no longer need them and are willing to donate, thus supporting the mission of the Silesian hospice. The charity shop will be stocked by regular partners and donors of the foundation and accepts clothing up to size 140 cm.

An added benefit of this approach to shopping is its environmental awareness and fostering pro-ecological attitudes from a young age. “ŚWIETLIKOWO – TO I OWO” aids parents in their zero-waste efforts, teaching children responsible item usage and smart giving. Although charity shops aren’t a new concept, with the first such stores established in the 19th century, initiatives of this nature are currently enjoying a surge in popularity[1].

– Many charity shops have been established in the past, but until now, none have been exclusively for children. We are pleased to join such a noble initiative, where children are helping children. Gemini Park Bielsko-Biała has long been involved in local social actions. In collaboration with our partners, we aim to create innovative projects aligned with Gemini Holding’s values. We invite our customers to visit, donate unneeded clothes and toys, and shop to support the Foundation and its mission – says Krzysztof Brączek, Director of Gemini Park Bielsko-Biała.

The store opening concluded with an “Autumn Fashion Show” in the center’s event area. The youngest participants had the opportunity to model on the catwalk, assisting by showcasing clothes available in “ŚWIETLIKOWO – TO I OWO.” Preparations for additional charitable activities are already in progress.

– We intend for the store to become a center for various activities. The success of the first event with young models inspires us to expand beyond our store and carry out additional activities within the shopping center. We are thrilled that our cooperation with Gemini Park Bielsko-Biała enables us to promote smart consumption and the concept of charity. Being located in a shopping center allows us to reach a broad audience in Bielsko-Biała and the entire region – says Natasza Godlewska, President of the Śląskie Hospicjum dla Dzieci Foundation.

[1] Charity shops: how they operate and how they differ from second-hand stores? – Fashion Business