Sewing Machines Transform Lives - Susan's Story
Susan lives in Kalulushi, one of the poorest townships on the outskirts of Kitwe, Zambia. Kitwe was once a thriving mining town, but with...
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Who We Are
We are a Christian charity that collects unwanted usable tools, refurbishes them, sorts them into trade tool kits and sends them to the developing world for livelihood creation. In doing so, we also support UK communities through volunteering opportunities and contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and carbon emissions in the UK.
Through our 'local to global' model, we prevent over 400 tonnes of tools from crowding UK landfills annually (increasing to over 600 tonnes in 2023) and engage local communities, offering volunteering opportunities that nurture skills and foster social connections. The impact of our work resonates globally, as we supply refurbished tools to over 500 organisations in Sub-Saharan Africa. These tools equip individuals with the skills needed to completely transform their lives and communities.
By refurbishing and recycling, we save over 1,100 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually (increasing to over 1,600 tonnes in 2023), demonstrating our commitment to environmental sustainability. Our toolkits serve as catalysts for change, from supporting families and education to strengthening communities. Our local efforts have a global impact, helping to create a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Our Impact
Last year, we sent 17 containers, filled with 12,711 toolkits, to four countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. We achieved this with the help of our UK-based team of over 500 volunteers, including four refurbishment centres, five volunteer-formed local groups, and seven independent workshops including Men’s Sheds.
By supporting African livelihoods, we contribute to the fight against poverty and its ripple effects. Additionally, our efforts have an impact on UK communities and the environment as we promote sustainable living practices, reduce waste, and engage volunteers across the country, as well as provide support to vulnerable people.
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The impact in Africa
We send our toolkits to community groups that provide training to their members on how to effectively use them.
These toolkits empower trainees to become self-sufficient upon graduating from their course.
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Our beneficiaries include vulnerable people who may be in abusive relationships or unable to work due to their family circumstances.
These community groups provide them with a safe space to connect with others, learn new skills, and ultimately transform their lives. By equipping individuals with the tools they need to succeed, we help break the cycle of poverty and empower communities to thrive.
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The impact in the UK
We provide a range of volunteering opportunities for individuals in the UK, particularly those who may be lonely or vulnerable. Volunteering with TWAM not only offers a sense of purpose but also provides a supportive community where volunteers feel valued and cared for.
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Our dedicated team of over 500 volunteers play a crucial role in our operations, driving our vans, collecting tools from the public, refurbishing them in our refurbishment centre, and assisting with administrative tasks in the office, among other roles.
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Simply put, our volunteers are the backbone of our organisation, and we are immensely grateful for their contributions. Join our community of volunteers today and make a meaningful impact in the world.
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The impact on the Earth
We promote reuse as a way to combat climate change. Every year, we send over 250 tonnes of tools to Africa and recycle any broken tools that we receive. Many of these tools are unwanted and end up taking up space in people's sheds or garages, eventually being sent to landfills.
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Our work not only keeps these tools out of landfills but also puts them in the hands of the people who need them most, reducing the overall carbon footprint.
By diverting these tools from landfills and promoting their reuse, we are able to save an estimated 1,134 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
We have many stories about lives that have been transformed by tools on our blog. We also post about what's going on in the UK, so make sure to have a read if you want to know more about our work!
News and Stories
Quick Links
We take a wide variety of tools. Click the button above for the full list of accepted tools, and to find your nearest local collector or drop-off point.
Our work is mostly done by volunteers, whether that's driving around collecting tools, refurbishing them, or helping out in the office. Have a look at our roles.
Support our work by covering the costs involved with putting together a tool kit, as a donation, or an alternative gift on behalf of a loved one.
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