Project Uplift: Drop Off Point at the ReUse Market

Project Uplift is a New Zealand-based charity that collects new and gently used bras and distributes them to women in need, primarily in the Pacific Islands but also within New Zealand and other parts of the world.

We are big fans of the work of Project Uplift and are aware unitl now there has been no drop off point for residents and visitors in Auckland’s City Centre. 

From May 2025 we will have a collection box on the High St side of the market – near the Free Table.

Mission and Impact:

The primary mission of Project Uplift is to provide the dignity and comfort of a bra to women who lack access to or cannot afford them. This seemingly simple act has a significant impact on their lives in several ways:

• Dignity and Social Inclusion: A bra is often taken for granted, but for many women, it provides a sense of normalcy and allows them to participate more confidently in social and professional settings. In some cultures, not wearing a bra can be stigmatizing or even limit opportunities.
• Health and Hygiene: In humid climates, the lack of a bra can lead to skin irritations, fungal infections, and rashes due to chafing and lack of airflow. Bras provide support and help prevent these issues. For nursing mothers, bras offer the practicality and dignity of a dry shirt.
• Support and Comfort: Bras offer physical support, which is especially important for women with larger breasts or those who work in physically demanding jobs like gardening or fishing. They also provide comfort during everyday activities.
• Post-Surgery Support: Project Uplift also collects and distributes mastectomy bras and breast forms, offering crucial support and a sense of wholeness for women who have undergone breast surgery.
• Empowerment: By providing this basic necessity, Project Uplift empowers women and girls, enabling them to attend school, seek employment, and participate more fully in their communities.

How it Works:

Project Uplift operates through a network of volunteers who collect donations of bras from individuals, businesses, and community groups. These bras are then sorted and packaged for distribution. The charity works with various organizations, including hospitals, women’s shelters, schools, and community groups, to ensure the bras reach the women who need them most. They often send shipments to countries like Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and sometimes other regions based on requests and need.

What We Collect:

Project Uplift accepts various types of bras in good condition, including:

• Everyday bras (all sizes and cup sizes, especially larger sizes)
• Sports bras and crop tops
• Nursing bras
• Mastectomy bras and breast forms
• Swimwear
• New or nearly new underpants
• Reusable nursing pads

Even bras with protruding or wonky wires are accepted, as the usable parts can be salvaged. They also appreciate new underwear and fabric nappies. However, they generally do not accept items like bodysuits, shapewear, or lingerie.

2024 Numbers of Bras collected and sent

16465 bras to Fiji
5365 bras to Tonga
290 bras to Samoa
1200 bras to Vanuatu
1015 bras to local Tongan communities
430 maternity bras to Pregnancy help and other agencies
250 bras to Auckland Women’s Prison
Total of 25,015 bras! Amazing, thanks Kate!

Project Uplift is a simple yet impactful initiative that highlights how a seemingly small donation can make a significant difference in the lives of women facing hardship.