ReUSE: Berkeley's Only On-Campus Thrift Store

ReUSE: Berkeley's Only On-Campus Thrift Store

Project Lead: Ariel Chu

Sponsor: ReUSE

Project Theme: Waste Reduction; Education, Outreach, & Behavior Change

2022 Application Submission

Project Description:

ReUSE began as a shop in the MLK Jr. Garage in 2000, and has since expanded to ReUSE stations throughout campus in addition to a central storefront in the MLK Jr. Student Union Building, established in 2016.

The 2020 pandemic interrupted ReUSE’s operations, leading to a build-up of donations and equipment in need of replacement. ReUSE will use funding to purchase new materials for the store to ensure it can continue to divert clothing waste from landfill and supply clothing to students in need. ReUSE states that they have historically saved around 1,000 lbs. of waste from landfills every year, and that they offer $3 or less clothing and student materials for low-income or houseless students.

Goals of Project:

  1. Replace or purchase necessary items—such as sewing materials and clothing display items—to permanently keep the store self-sustaining for future volunteers and years to come.
  2. Improve store quality, cleanliness and general outreach.