The start of the school year is an exciting time for parents and kids. However, with the additional costs of uniforms, shoes, pencil cases, lunch boxes and all the other school essentials, it is also a very expensive time for families.
As another school year rolls around, two new websites, FindAUniform and Open Shed, are now available to help ease the pain by helping parents think differently about how they can access what their kids need.
FindAUniform, a national online second hand uniform notice board, was started by Bernadette Alexander in January 2011.
“I was constantly being frustrated by how difficult it was to find second hand uniforms for school, as well as all the different activities my four girls do,” explains Mrs Alexander.
“I started FindAUniform for busy parents like me. Through the site you can buy, sell, swap uniforms or place wanted ads. Ask for what you need and sell what you don't! ”
Open Shed is a new peer-to-peer rental website where Australians can rent each other’s belongings for a fraction of the price of buying new. List for rent all the stuff that you own that you only use occasionally or create a wanted ad for the items you would like to rent.
“Tools for that occasional DIY job at home is what immediately comes to mind for people when they first discover Open Shed. But we really want to encourage parents to see it as a great resource for their kids too.” said Open Shed co founder and Director, Lisa Fox.
“It’s fabulous to be able to give your child the opportunity to try lots of activities to see what they enjoy the most. But the initial outlay for each activity can make this prohibitive.By renting the equipment they need through Open Shed first, you let them try, before you buy! So trying new activities becomes more accessible and affordable,” says Ms Fox.
“FindAUniform and Open Shed offer Australian families the opportunity to save and make money while building and strengthening community ties. And it’s also a really easy way to be resourceful and sustainable” says Mrs Alexander.
For further information FindAUniform visit findauniform.com.au and Open Shed visit openshed.com.au
Motherpedia.com.au also gives people the ability to buy, sell and giveaway items at no cost through The Natter.