Oxfam Ireland extends heartfelt thanks to those from the South for their incredible support of its sixth annual Second Hand September campaign, which saw Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls, The Great Pottery Throwdown) as the national ambassador and former RTÉ Southeast correspondent Damien Tiernan as the regional face.
This year’s campaign has seen thousands of people take the pledge to shop second-hand, helping to promote sustainable fashion, reduce waste, and raise vital funds for life-changing global humanitarian work.
Throughout September, Oxfam shops in Ireland experienced an overwhelming response from shoppers and donors alike, with many embracing the opportunity to give pre-loved items a second life. By choosing to shop second-hand, communities around Ireland have made a meaningful contribution to the global fight against climate change while supporting vulnerable communities affected by poverty, conflict, and natural disasters.
Upon joining the campaign, Damien Tiernan said: “In the early days I was inspired by the life-saving work Oxfam were doing on the ground, but as my career in journalism progressed, I learned of the wider work they were engaged in around advocacy in areas like taxing the rich and other social and human rights issues. They align with many of my own interests and beliefs and I’m really proud to come on board with the campaign.”
NO TO FAST FASHION
Second Hand September encourages people to say no to fast fashion for 30 days by choosing pre-loved items, donating what they no longer need, and embracing more sustainable shopping habits. The campaign highlights the environmental impact of the fashion industry, which is responsible for around 10% of global carbon emissions and enormous volumes of waste.
By shopping second-hand, participants not only reduce their own carbon footprint, but also contribute to the circular economy, helping to tackle the growing environmental crisis.
Oxfam Ireland’s charity shops provide much-needed funding for the organisation’s work, including emergency response efforts, long-term development projects, and fighting poverty. Proceeds from Second Hand September will go directly towards these vital initiatives.
CONTINUE YOUR SUPPORT
Second Hand September also demonstrated the power of collective action. Schools, businesses, and individuals across Ireland participated by organising clothing swaps, fundraising events, and donation drives. Oxfam Ireland is particularly thankful to the many volunteers who helped make the campaign a success, from sorting donations in Oxfam’s shops to promoting the campaign online and in their local communities.
While the event may be over, Oxfam Ireland encourages the public to continue shopping second-hand, donating items, and supporting Oxfam stores nationwide. By making sustainable fashion choices all year long, communities can continue to play a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry and supporting Oxfam’s global mission to alleviate poverty.
 as the national ambassador and former RTÉ Southeast correspondent Damien Tiernan as the regional face.){kind=link}