What are Buy Nothing Groups?
More than 11 years ago, the Buy Nothing Project was created. The idea was to create a place for folks to trade without currency. When someone posts something they are giving away, or, what we say in my local group, “gifting” — they aren’t obligated to give the item to the first person who responds. Sometimes the gifter might request for those interested to comment on why they need the item, or they might request for you to comment with something more specific so your neighbors can get to know you better.
In the group, one can also request items based on what they may be needing at that exact moment. Just this week I saw someone post what she described as a “Mom Fail,” explaining she needed a shoebox for her child’s diorama that was due the very next day. Someone commented that they will leave one on their porch for her to pick up immediately.
These groups are local and specific to neighborhoods or small communities. When you participate, you can get to know your neighbors pretty well.
Benefits for parents
Kids grow fast and interests change. I’ve received so many incredible gifts through my local group. When I had my second child, I received bags and bags of clothes — some newborn and some I held onto for him to grow into. Other examples: Half of a sleeve of diapers someone grew out of too fast to use the whole thing; sippy cups their kid didn’t like; unopened snacks the kids in the house just didn’t like. It makes me feel good that I can reuse someone’s gently used items, the moms who get rid of their clutter feel great about purging and it’s also reassuring knowing that
I’m doing my part to reduce my carbon footprint.
I’ve received gently used toys, clothes for myself as I headed back to work after maternity leave and — my favorite of all — a tranquil turtle sound and light machine that quickly became part of our bedtime routine. A few weeks later after receiving that turtle, I was able to return the favor to the parent. She was looking for a pair of shoes for her little girl for springtime photos the next morning. My daughter had just grown out of her little blue jellies and they were practically new. They worked out perfectly, and I learned this through that parent’s Gratitude Post: A way of sharing with the group how another member has made a positive impact. Win. Win.
By Carrie Woodard