Fashion That Gives Back
Looking for a way to refresh your wardrobe while making a real difference and changing lives?
Fashion Forward is an initiative that merges sustainability with social impact.
Since its inception in 2020, Fashion Forward has raised over $715,000 for Jewish House, including more than $150,000 this financial year alone toward a $250,000 fundraising goal.
The initiative is fueled by generous donations from individuals, retailers, and consignment stores, ensuring that high-quality clothing is given a second life while reducing fashion waste, and directly supporting Jewish House’s essential crisis services for women and children.
The rising cost of living and increasing financial pressures mean that more people than ever are turning to Jewish House for support. Fashion Forward’s contributions play a crucial role in funding programs that provide not only immediate crisis intervention but also long-term solutions that help individuals rebuild their lives.
A Safe Haven: How Fashion Forward Helps Fund Jewish House’s New Centre
Back in December, Jewish House officially opened its new centre for women and children in crisis—a project made possible in part by the generosity of Fashion Forward. It’s an appropriate way to celebrate the massive 5 year milestone birthday that’s looming for the business.
This new space is more than just a shelter; it’s a fresh start, a safe place, and a stepping stone toward a brighter future.
The new building provides 52 rooms, keeping an additional 1,000 people off the streets each year. Jewish House and their centres offer comprehensive support to people from all walks of life, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or religion. For those fleeing domestic violence, experiencing homelessness, or facing extreme financial hardship, our organisation provides not just immediate relief, but also long-term solutions.
While this milestone is a significant achievement, there is still much work to be done. The centre needs to be fully furnished, stocked with essentials, and sustained with ongoing food and support services. Every dollar raised through Fashion Forward helps ensure that women and children in crisis have a place to turn.
The Heart of Fashion Forward
Fashion Forward was founded by Nicole Katz and Sharon Aaron, two women who saw an opportunity to create a meaningful change in their community. What started as a small project has grown into a thriving social enterprise that has become a hub for women looking to shop with purpose.
Their vision was simple: find new homes for pre-loved designer clothing, while raising funds to support those in crisis. Through their efforts, they have helped Jewish House provide vital services while also fostering a space where fashion lovers can connect, contribute, and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
“We exist because of the generosity of our community, and the power of women supporting women”, says Nicole. “Because we are volunteer-run and don’t pay rent, every dollar we raise goes directly to Jewish House, helping women and children in crisis from all backgrounds, cultures and religions. The new shelter is a testament to what a passionate community can achieve, and we are incredibly proud of what we’ve built together.”
How You Can Help: Donate Clothes, Change Lives
One of the easiest ways to support Fashion Forward is by donating your pre-loved designer pieces. Not only does it clear out your wardrobe and give your clothes a second life, it also helps fund vital community services.
- Provide a Fresh Start: Every sale at Fashion Forward goes directly toward helping women and children in crisis, funding essentials such as accommodation, food, and psychological support.
- Support a Community in Need: Your donations contribute to essential programs that provide safety, advocacy, and practical support to those experiencing hardship.
- Declutter with Purpose: Free up space in your wardrobe while knowing your items are making a real difference in someone’s life.
Where and How to Donate
Fashion Forward is currently accepting designer donations, and it’s never been easier to contribute:
- Drop Off Your Items: Donations can be made at our store at 1/1-7 Curlewis Street, Bondi during opening hours (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 12:30 - 3:30 PM).
- Contact Us: If you have a collection of items and need assistance, reach out via Instagram.
The Ultimate Guilt-Free Shopping Experience
Shopping at Fashion Forward is just about finding incredible pre-loved fashion at incredibly low prices - it’s a feel good experience:
- Shop Sustainably: Purchasing second-hand reduces textile waste and carbon emissions from new clothing production.
- Support a Great Cause: Every purchase directly funds Jewish House’s crisis services, providing real help to those in need.
If you can’t make it in person, you can also shop via Instagram, with items available for purchase and shipping.
Join the Movement: Donate, Shop, and Spread the Word
As co-founder Sharon explains, “Fashion Forward is a social enterprise that embodies the idea of a win-win. Where else can you give and receive at the same time? Whether you’re donating high-end clothes, shopping sustainably, or supporting a life-changing charity, everyone benefits. We are unique, and that’s why we’ve built such an incredible following that continues to support us.”
Fashion Forward thrives because of the generosity of our community. Visit our Instagram for updates, new arrivals, and details on how you can get involved, and join our community on Facebook. Together, we can create a more sustainable future while providing life-changing support to those who need it most.
Donate today. Shop guilt-free. Change lives.
