Leeds coffee shop 200 Degrees are holding their annual Swap Shop event. Located on Bond Street, you can exchange unopened hygiene products, anything from deodorant to washing powder, and bag yourself a free coffee this Tuesday.
Originally started in 2020 with a few of their stores participating, all 18 coffee shops will be taking part this year due to its past success and positive feedback. “Last year we rolled it out in all shops and everyone loved it! We had so many products that people brought in and it was a really big hit” said their Leeds barista, Aaron Mistry.
The cost of living crisis is hitting those on the breadline the hardest, making even the essentials a struggle to buy. The charity, The Hygiene Bank, reports “Hygiene poverty was found to affect an estimated 3,150,000 adults in the UK (6% of the population)” in 2022. As a result, initiatives like 200 Degrees Swap Shop, are on the rise as local communities struggle with soaring prices.
All the products collected during the initiative are then donated to their new charity partner, Switch Up, who will be distributing them to vulnerable families in need this Christmas. Switch Up is a Nottingham based charity aiming to empower young people to break the cycle of offending and reoffending.
Unopened products that you’re able to donate in exchange for a warm coffee are:
- deodorant,
- shower gel and shampoo,
- toothpaste and toothbrushes,
- toilet roll,
- nappies and baby products,
- washing powder,
- makeup,
- perfume,
- sanitary products
- everyday household cleaning products
