Brio donates old uniforms to support communities in Africa

Brio, operator of seven leisure centres across Cheshire West and Chester, has collaborated with the Gunjur Project Association to donate pre-loved workwear items, including polos, trousers, shorts and fleeces, to local communities in The Gambia.

Following Brio’s brand refresh in May, Brio took the opportunity to roll out new staff uniforms which were due for replacement. While staff were encouraged to recycle items which were well-worn items, some uniforms were in good condition to reuse. Keen to reduce waste and make a positive impact, they were delighted to connect with The Gunjur Project Association, a charity with strong ties in the coastal town of Gunjur to redistribute the clothing where it was most needed. 

Feedback from the charity reported that the donated uniforms have already supported five different groups, ranging from environmental and community initiatives to health and wellbeing programmes. The clothing has offered comfort and protection, helping individuals continue their important work for their communities. 

Yellow polos and red shorts were also donated to children attending weekend study classes, which will now become their new uniform. Teachers fed back that pupils were “delighted to receive the brand-new clothing, with lots of happy faces and excitement on the day of distribution”. 

A spokesperson for the Gunjur Project added:

“Receiving such quality sportswear and workwear was not only practical but also uplifting, giving them a real sense of pride and belonging. This contribution has brought joy, dignity, and encouragement to countless individuals”.