IF one bra has the power to give a woman dignity and an income, imagine the influence of 1670.
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That was the tally from the second annual bra drive for the Uplift Project at Raid My Wardrobe last Sunday.
The drive was co-ordinated by Rachel Prest of Raid My Wardrobe.
Ms Prest said she was astounded by the response of local women clearing their wardrobes to assist disadvantaged women.
‘‘It is fantastic – it is an easy way for women to gift to another woman. A bra is something that is so simple yet a necessity.’’
Last year she collected 862 bras in a range of sizes and styles, as well as swimwear and sports crop tops.
Ms Prest said she had heard of a Fijian woman who was able to work in a resort due to a gifted bra.
‘‘Because she didn’t own a bra, she couldn’t apply for a job and bring in an income for her family,’’ she said.
‘‘That is the power of one bra.’’
The bras will be sorted, packed and sent to Sydney where they are distributed to where ever they are needed.
The majority of NSW bras are sent to Fiji or the Philippines.
Since the project was established in 2005, 1 million bras have been sent to women who had no ability to access or buy their own.
Uplift Project NSW co-ordinator Anna Davis said the Raid My Wardrobe bra drive was a significant collection.
As a voluntary organisation, Mrs Davis said the project was limited by shipping costs, which was covered by the public’s generosity – $10 ships 100 bras.
■ Rachel Prest will be collecting bras until June 7. If you want to donate bras email info@raidmywardrobe.com.au or phone 0415 435 045. Go to upliftbras.org for more information on the project or to donate bras after June 7 or to donate to shipping costs.
