SwapShop gets set for Easter
The Phuket SwapShop is gearing up for an Easter celebration filled with family-friendly activities and the spirit of giving, set to take place at the Seeds of Change Vocational Learning Centre from 11am to 3pm tomorrow (Mar 30). The event holds a special emphasis on raising awareness and fostering community connections for the inspiring charity based on Koh Siray. Additionally, it aims to raise vital funds for the dedicated cause of Rawai Animal Lovers. The compassionate rescue centre is currently grappling with steep veterinary bills for the care of sick cats and dogs, placing immense strain on its resources and personnel.
“Rawai Animal Lovers is facing a critical situation due to the overwhelming number of sick and rescued animals in need of urgent veterinary care. Without additional support, the impact will be severe,” explains Sarha Robinson, co-founder of Phuket Swap Exchange. Operating primarily on the efforts of founder Simone and the occasional volunteer, they rely heavily on community assistance to sustain their operations.
Each SwapShop event not only benefits numerous local individuals but also extends support to the charities it represents. While the event rotates venues across the island, its debut at the
Seeds of Change Vocational Learning Centre is particularly fitting. Known for their commitment to sustainability, the centre crafts all its products from recycled materials. By purchasing these unique, high-quality items, attendees not only contribute to a worthy cause but also demonstrate environmental responsibility.
Every product from the centre is meticulously crafted by skilled women who have participated in its various programmes, aimed at empowering them with essential skills for selfemployment. These programs cater to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including returning mothers, economically disadvantaged youths and seniors who have missed out on such opportunities.
Trained seamstresses Gift and Noi have been operating the Phuket SwapShop mending station at the clothes exchange event for over a year. Armed with sewing machines and boundless creativity, they mend tears, rips, buttons and zips on-site, often transforming items into unique pieces. Their dedication has now extended to teaching other students at the vocational centre on Koh Siray, embodying the centre’s mission of skill empowerment and community support.
Phuket SwapShop invites the entire community to contribute to Seeds of Change and Rawai Animal Lover by participating in the ‘Phuket SwapShop & Easter Egg Hunt’ event. Involvement and support can take various forms.
“Our SwapShop gatherings encourages a free market ethos, advocating ‘SWAP, Don’t Shop’, an abundance for everyone,” elaborates Sarha. “Participants bring their pre-loved treasures, which our volunteers arrange on tables for all to peruse and select from. There’s no restriction on what you offer or take home! We simply request consideration, particularly for the charities.
“After each event, we invariably have numerous items left, destined for the Good Shepherd to be distributed to Phuket’s less privileged areas of Phuket. Beyond swapping and donating goods, donation boxes will be on hand for those unable to contribute items or wishing to provide additional support. We recognise that challenges exist even in paradise” Sarha adds.
“What’s beautiful about SwapShop is the ability to give what you can. We suggest B200 is a kind gesture, but we appreciate any donation, whether a B10 coin or more. It mirrors our community – individuals collectively forming a compassionate and impactful group.”
A highlight of the day will be a visit from the Sunshine Village Orphanage
Kids, engaging in the story led Easter Egg Hunt by the unique and talented Abstract Kids Drama team.
Amid the scenic college surroundings all children can join the Easter
Egg Hunt at 1pm. A raffle boasting enticing prizes will benefit Rawai Animal Lovers.
“If you believe it ends there, you haven’t experienced a SwapShop before,” beams Sarha. “Expect live music, craft workshops, bag painting, elephant stuffing, a UK DJ, a special menu, a ‘Head Dunk Challenge’ and an Artisan market. And there’s even an after-party thrown in for good measure.”
The Artisan market will exhibit creations from 10 local artists, showcasing beautifully Crafted, and reasonably priced, handmade products, including macramé, home décor, gifts, essential oils and other delightful items.
“Phuket SwapShop embodies charity, community backing, and sustainability,” notes Sarha. “As members of ANRFC [Andaman Natural Resource and Conservation Foundation] for Southern Thailand, we’re grateful to connect with like-minded individuals on the island who share our passion for sustainability.
“For instance, The Tree House Play Café, which champions sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, will offer a children upcycling craft station featuring nature egg painting and cardboard box decorating. Karla, who oversees this play centre, crafts much of the cafés furniture and activities from reclaimed natural materials, making invaluable contributions to Phuket. It is yet another testament to the interconnectedness and generosity within our community.”
Phuket SwapShop is experiencing exponential growth, and it’s the consistent support from returning attendees that is fueling its momentum.
“The response has been incredible, almost unstoppable, like a locomotive in motion. More and more individuals are expressing interest in joining our Swap Family,” Sarha shares. “By uniting people and shining a spotlight on overlooked causes, we can make a significant difference in the community. There’s a genuine need for fostering sharing and creating opportunities for individuals to connect with each other naturally.”
Would you like to be part of the Phuket SwapShop team? Sarha and her colleagues are always looking for supporters to lend a hand at events. Local businesses can contribute to a good cause by donating special prizes for the raffle; proceeds will go to the Rawai Animal Lovers. Contact Phuket SwapShop through their official Facebook page or by email to phuketswapshop@gmail.com