Neki Ki Dewaar offers clothes, dignity

Nitish Sharma

Tribune News Service

Ambala, August 12

A city-based NGO, the Propkar Sewa Society, has been running a store where underprivileged can pick up any garment for Rs 20.

The store named “Neki Ki Dewaar” became operational in November 2018. People can donate their spare clothes but instead of distributing them for free, the NGO charges Rs 20 so that buyers can wear clothes with dignity.

Jaswinder Singh, store manager, said, “We used help people during floods and earthquake in different parts of the country. Local residents started donating spare clothes. Our aim is to provide affordable and good quality clothes to the underprivileged. We try to ensure that only needy people get the clothes.”

“There are several orgainsations who set up ‘Neki Ki Diwar’ during winters, but we decided to keep the store open throughout the year. Instead of giving things free, we decided to charge a nominal amount so that people get a buying experience and wear clothes with dignity. If we allow people to take away clothes free of cost, the entire store would get empty within a few days and people wouldn’t value garment,” he said.

The Society has appointed two employees to pick good clothes and help buyers. In April, 591 people purchased clothes, while in May, June and July, the figures stood at 486, 610, and 1,046.

“Those who are not in the position to spend even Rs 20 are provided clothes free of cost. No rent has been charged so far from where the shop is being run. However, it will be sold soon and we are looking for another place,” Jaswinder said.

People should donate extra clothes and also school uniform so that it can be provided to needy kids, he said.