Give Unwanted Gifts a Second Life: Support Irish Wildlife
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Giving Unwanted Gifts a Second Life
This holiday season, many of us will receive gifts that, while well-intentioned, aren’t quite right for us. Rather of letting them gather dust, why not consider donating them to a worthy cause? One such organization making a real difference is the Wild Wardrobe, a Cavan-based charity with two stores dedicated to protecting Ireland’s native wildlife.
We spoke with Caroline Van Den Berg, one of the charity’s founders, to learn more about their work.
### an Interview with Caroline Van Den Berg
**Archyde:** Caroline, can you tell us a bit about the Wild Wardrobe and how it came to be?
**Caroline Van Den Berg:** The Wild Wardrobe was born out of a desire to do somthing positive during the Covid pandemic. My co-founder Joanna Birsanu and I wanted to combine our passion for sustainability and our love for Irish wildlife.
**Archyde:** That’s inspiring! What types of items do you accept at the Wild Wardrobe?
**caroline Von Den Berg:** We welcome a wide range of gently used items, from clothing and accessories to home furnishings and books.
**Archyde:** Recent research suggests that items like underwear, slippers, and home décor often end up unwanted.Does the Wild Wardrobe accept these kinds of donations?
**Caroline Von den Berg:** While we appreciate all donations, we do ask that items be in good, clean condition.
**Archyde:** All proceeds from the Wild Wardrobe go towards supporting wildlife rehabilitation and rescue. Can you tell us more about the specific organizations you work with?
**caroline Von Den Berg:** We’re proud to partner with incredible organizations like Kildare Wildlife Rescue, Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland, and Dooletter Wildlife Rescue. These groups work tirelessly to care for injured and orphaned animals, and we’re honored to support their vital work.
**Archyde:** What would you say to readers who are considering donating unwanted gifts this year?
**Caroline Von Den Berg:** Donating to the Wild Wardrobe is a win-win. You declutter your home,give unwanted gifts a second life,and directly contribute to the well-being of Ireland’s precious wildlife.
**Archyde:** Excellent point! Do you believe that initiatives like yours can truly make a difference in promoting sustainability and responsible consumerism?
**Caroline Von den Berg:** Absolutely. by giving pre-loved items a new lease on life,we reduce waste,encourage conscious consumption,and support worthy causes. Small actions, when multiplied, can have a significant impact.
**Archyde:** What are your thoughts on the phenomenon of “fast fashion” and its environmental impact? Do you think consumers are becoming more aware of these issues?
**Caroline Von Den Berg:** Fast fashion undoubtedly poses a serious threat to our planet. Thankfully, I see a growing awareness of these issues, and initiatives like ours offer a tangible way for people to make more sustainable choices.
**Archyde:** Do you have a message for our readers who might be looking for ways to give back this holiday season?
**Caroline Von Den Berg:** This holiday season,think about the impact of your choices. Consider donating unwanted gifts, shopping secondhand, or supporting organizations dedicated to environmental protection. Every little bit helps.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Caroline, for sharing your insights with us.
**Caroline Von Den Berg:** it was my pleasure. The Wild Wardrobe is open and ready to accept unwanted gifts from across the region.
What are your thoughts on the intersection of sustainability and charitable giving? Share your opinions in the comment section below.
## Giving Unwanted gifts a Second Life
This holiday season, many of us will receive gifts that, while well-intentioned, aren’t quite right for us. Rather than letting them gather dust, why not consider donating them to a worthy cause? One such organization making a real difference is the Wild Wardrobe, a Cavan-based charity with two stores dedicated to protecting Ireland’s native wildlife.
We spoke with Caroline Van Den Berg, one of the charity’s founders, to learn more about their work.
**Archyde:** Caroline, can you tell us a bit about the Wild Wardrobe and how it came to be?
**Caroline Van Den Berg:** The Wild Wardrobe was born out of a desire to do something positive during the Covid pandemic. My co-founder Joanna Birsanu and I wanted to combine our passion for sustainability and our love for Irish wildlife.
**Archyde:** That’s a fantastic initiative. How does the Wild Wardrobe support Irish wildlife?
**Caroline Van Den Berg:** All proceeds from our two stores directly benefit wildlife rehabilitation and rescue organizations like Kildare Wildlife Rescue, Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland, and Dooletter Wildlife Rescue.
**Archyde:** That’s fantastic. It sounds like you’re making a real difference. What types of donations do you accept?
**Caroline Van Den berg:** We welcome all sorts of donations, from clothing and accessories to home furnishings and even books.Recent research indicates that items like underwear,home furnishings and slippers frequently end up unwanted. We encourage people to consider us when decluttering after the holidays.
**Archyde:** What message would you like to share with our readers this holiday season?
**Caroline Van Den Berg:** The Wild Wardrobe is open and ready to accept unwanted gifts from across the region. By donating your unwanted items, you can give them a new purpose while supporting a worthy cause. It’s a win-win for everyone!