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MISSION
Empowering unemployed South Africans to become financially and socially independent, by supporting and nurturing them to start sustainable business.
VISION
To inspire, skill and support unemployed South Africans to eradicate poverty in their families.
ABOUT US
Here at The Clothing Bank, we are driven to do our part in making the world a better place. Since 2000, we have taken part in a wide range of activities that empower individuals and communities. We strive to build productive relationships and make a positive impact with all of our pursuits. Are you ready to join us and create real transformation in the lives of so many?
WHAT WE DO
Meaningful Work
GROW WITH EDUCARE CENTER
Educare Center
THE APPLIANCE BANK
Helping Those Who Need Us Most
THE CLOTHING BANK
The Future Looks Bright
IN THE NEWS
Stay in the Know
INTERVIEW WITH THE CLOTHING BANK CANDIDATE
July 9, 2022
Zimele KwababanaLives in Cape Town
I came from Eastern Cape to Cape Town in 2001 to look for a job. I worked for a security company for 12 years. While I was working, I always thinking about doing some course I could do so that I can work on my own, especially with my hands.
While I was working my wife joined The Clothing Bank, I did notice that if I can go and do something else - together we can go far. I told my wife that this is a chance for me to leave the security company and look for something else to do. Only one week after I left, my wife told me about The Appliance Bank. I was so interested but I was scared on the other hand because I was not good at electric things. I took a chance and I went there. Unfortunately I did not make it the first time, but they gave me a second chance and I told myself that I am not going to play with this opportunity. I took it with both hands.
I must give credit to Mr Allen who taught me how to fix appliances, he does everything to make you understand. So today, I am very proud of that TAB has made me who I am and made me stand on my own. I know how to run my business. It totally changed my life and I wish that I can go far.
THE CLOTHING BANK: DEDICATION AND SERVICE WITH PROVEN IMPACT
February 12, 2022
Nomhlobo YantoloI started at TCB in 2020. The year was full of financial difficulties for me and my family.
I was not working and I have a child that needs medical attention (she’s a disabled child with lots of challenges). At that time my sister lost her job too due to Covid so it was hard starting the program at that time with lots of baggage.
TCB taught me how to respond when life challenges me. I learn bookkeeping, selling and a business mindset. I learn to step out of my comfort zone.
Now I know that whatever life gives me, “Never give up. Dress up, show up and respond to life’s challenges”. I always think of those words when I feel tired.
My life has never been the same ever since I started at TCB. Now I’m able to provide for my family and my sister and her kids.
The journey has not ended yet. I’m in year 2 at TCB. I’m so excited and looking forward to learning more. I’m grateful.
LESSONS LEARNED: THE KEY TO NON-PROFIT PROGRAM EVALUATION
November 22, 2021
Pheliwe Mbengo36GugulethuMy name is Pheliwe Mbengo. I’m 36 years of age and reside in Guguletu.
Before I joined TCB my life was not of a good standard because of unemployment. I can say my life was difficult.
I completed my matric in 2004. Then I did some short courses in IT A+ and Networking. I found a job working for a security company. But, my life was up and down because I had to choose between my studies and work. It was hard. I end up picking IT and studying. I struggle to find a permanent job in IT as a woman with little experience. Companies will offer me learnerships, but never a job.
My life has changed a lot since I joined TCB learning new things every day; fixing appliances. I learn a lot about how to become independent and how to run your own business. Here we are taught how to act as a business person – not undermine ourselves! Plus, I manage to pay my debts!
The most important thing I learned at TCB is how to make my own decisions; how to respond and be responsible.
My advice to others? Never give up on life!
@2021 The Clothing Bank
PHATHISWA DAWETI'S BENEFITS FROM THE CLOTHING BANK
August 9, 2022
Phathiswa Daweti 36StellenboschHi my name is Phathiswa Daweti from Stellenbosch.
I am an Enterprise Development beneficiary of TCB and about to graduate from the 2-year programme in July 2022.
Before I join TCB I was struggling financially and dependent on my abusive boyfriend because I was financially needy, but TCB developed my personal growth in all areas of my life and made me the woman that I am today! I am a good mom to two lovely, beautiful girls. Now I am able to provide for my whole family. I am the best big sister to my siblings. I don’t have an abusive person in my life any more.
Before TCB I had no self-confidence. Here, I gained skills like confidence, computer skills, and communication skills, improving in my English (which was so poor I was even scared to speak in front of people!).
This organisation created hope for me. I learned to be independent. Through TCB I find my weaknesses as my strong points – I ended up being a small group leader. I found my passion of being a businesswoman who now provides for her kids without the need for a man. I must say I am so proud of myself for showing a willingness to learn from other women in TCB and listening to my couch Najma and my Mentor Caroline. I recently even renovated my home because now I am mentally and physically healthy through the counselling sessions that TCB provides.
I really appreciate everything that was implemented towards my success by TCB. Yes, there are still challenges but now am equipped to overcome them because I have community
DONATE
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CONTACT US
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OUR TEAM
ANNUAL EVENTS
1. Graduations 🎓2. Opening Day 📂📝3. Hats 👒 and Hills 👠 woman's day celebration 4. High Tea ☕️ party
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HIV/AIDS POLICY
The objective of this policy is to ensure that all the employees are informed about HIV/AIDS as well as to detail the steps that will be taken to protect both employer and the employee against the effect of this disease. This will be achieved by:
•Eliminating unfair discrimination;•Promoting an environment in which people living with HIV/AIDS are treated fairly;•Monitoring the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in a structured manner;• Developing proactive guidelines and programmes;• Implementing HIV/AIDS awareness programs aimed at providing support and education.
RESPONSIBILITY Implementation of this policy is the responsibility of all managers and supervisors, as is a continued dissemination of HIV/AIDS of all employees. It is however the responsibility of employees to take appropriate actions of being informed about HIV/AIDS, to protect themselves and their families and to seek counseling in case of uncertainty.
MARKETING PLAN
Adopt-an-ECD
To break the cycle of inequality in South African, early education must become a strategic imperative. We have made it easy to get involved by launching our Adopt-an-ECD programme. Adoption is about creating a long-term meaningful partnership that results in sustainable impact. While providing centers with vital educational resources and continuous training and development, it also empowers the center to sustain and build on the investment.
Donors can adopt a center from set-up to first five-years milestone.
"This will help us convert and support many more grow GROW education centers. Our goal for the next year is to secure 60 adoptions at an average of R600 000 each, not inflation adjusted, spread over five years".
Corporate donors are able to claim Enterprise Development or Social Economic Development points for their donation. For more details about Adopt-an-ECD please contact info@growanecd.org.za.
REPUTATION MANAGEMENT STRATEGY
REBRANDING
The Clothing Bank has a brand new name: Taking Care of Business.
Our new name and logo is inspired by YOU and by the journey we take-together-to financial and social independence. During the past few months, we've come to realise that our name limits us and no longer represents our highest purpose or breadth of our impacts. We are way more than clothing, appliances, and fabric. We are in the business of empowering the people who are raising the next generation (Amen!) We are in the business of caring for the people and the planet (yes, please!) And we believe that when you take care of small business, you help people to take care of their families. That's why we wanted to review our brand strategy and reposition our organization.
Our new name and logo reflects our commitment to equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and resources they need to unlock their full potential and access the economy.
We are ready for a bright and impactful future as Taking Care of Business.