The Impact of Your Donations: A Glimpse into Project Harambee's Recent Trip
At The Bra Recyclers, we take immense pride in our partnerships with nonprofits like Project Harambee.
For years, we’ve supported their dedicated work in improving the lives of vulnerable children and families in Africa. Their approach isn’t about charity but about empowering communities through sustainable development.
This year’s trip to Kenya was a testament to the profound difference their work—and your recycling efforts—make.
Who is Project Harambee?
Project Harambee’s mission focuses on uplifting families impacted by HIV through community-driven projects in education, healthcare, and economics. We believe in giving items—and the people who receive them—a second chance, providing both practical support and a path to greater opportunity.
From providing high-yield dairy goats and pigs to support nutrition and education, to offering solar lanterns and cookers, their initiatives are designed to empower rather than simply aid.
They also support young people through scholarships for health profession education and engage communities with health education programs and local craft purchases to bolster economic independence.
Highlights from the 2024 Trip to Kenya
Kathleen, who leads the trips for Project Harambee, shared her reflections on this year's journey:
"Our trip to Kenya was intense and wonderfully productive. We had many donated items that were well-received, particularly the bras, underpants, and the care cards you sent!
“We distributed these at several locations, including St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School, Upendo Village, Nyumbani Village, and Machakos Women's Prison. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and the donations provided a significant source of comfort and dignity to those in need."
Inspiring Hope for the Women in Machakos Prison
At Machakos Prison, Kathleen was delighted to share your recycled undergarments with the ladies who depend on these items for a sense of safety and confidence.
"We met with the women as a group, and they whooped and hollered at the bras and underpants. The care cards you sent were much appreciated, though what they truly need is a program to help them find jobs once they are free. Your cards expressing hope and faith were a much-needed source of encouragement."
“Our donations are gladly received, and we sit with the women, listening and holding back tears. I don't know their crimes and wouldn't ask, yet it's clear they are just like us. Their greatest need is for things we can't give them: job programs so they can be good citizens and providers.”
A Visit to St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School
During their impactful trip, Project Harmbee also visited St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School in Kibera, one of the world’s largest and poorest slums. Kathleen shared:
"We emptied an entire suitcase at the school. The students, dressed in their uniforms—which for many is their only decent outfit—were deeply grateful. Their smart uniforms mask a level of poverty that's hard to believe. For some, the school provides their only meal of the weekend. The donations were not just practical necessities but symbols of care and support from across the globe."
Below are a few photos of these lovely girls.
Messages of Encouragement
When we donate recycled bras to organizations like Project Harambee, our goal is to provide more than just essential items. We aim to restore dignity and confidence while offering encouragement during difficult times.
One way we make this possible is by including cards with words of encouragement. These heartfelt messages are sent in by recyclers along with their donations, giving them a deeper connection to the process. Each recipient not only receives an undergarment but also a personal message of hope, adding a special touch to the impact we all create together.
“THANKS, Bra Recyclers. Over the years these unmet friends in Arizona have sent us thousands of bras, underwear, & cards expressing encouragement.”
It’s More than Just a Bra
As you can see, the need for your recycled undergarments is profound.
Many of the individuals and families served by Project Harambee face severe poverty, and items like bras and underwear are crucial for their dignity and well-being. Your contributions, whether as individual recyclers or retail partners, play a vital role in this mission.
They help provide basic needs and show that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact.
Looking Ahead
Kathleen is already planning the next trip and is excited about continuing their work:
"I’m hoping to take several guests next time, each bringing a suitcase of donated items. We will have lots of room, and more opportunities to bring hope to those in need."
Your ongoing support makes these missions possible. Every item recycled contributes to a greater cause. So, next time you consider throwing out those items you no longer need - consider how you can reduce your environmental impact and support someone in need by recycling them instead.
Thank you for being part of this journey!
