Zoetermeer gets 3 collection points Sportspullenbank
Playing sports is important for health, self-confidence and socializing. Yet sportswear and materials are not affordable for everyone. Therefore, the Sportspullenbank opens 3 collection points in Zoetermeer. Here, residents can hand in used sports gear so that it ends up with people who can make good use of it.
The Sportspullenbank cooperates in Zoetermeer with social organization Piëzo and with sports clubs Zoebas, FC Zoetermeer and Road Runners. At these clubs, residents can hand in sportswear, sports shoes and sports materials such as balls in the designated collection bins. The collected items are then selected and made available to residents with a small budget. This is done through Piëzo, which knows who in the city can use support.
"Sports is more than just exercise; it connects people, brings people together and provides a sense of belonging. It is important that everyone can participate, regardless of their financial situation. The Sportspullenbank helps with this," said Alderman Weerwag (Sports).
The Sports Gear Bank
The Sportspullenbank started in Rotterdam and is now active in several places in the Netherlands and now also in Zoetermeer. Participating clubs encourage their members to donate stuff and thus contribute to more equal opportunities. Erna Truijens, founder of the Sportspullenbank, is grateful that there will now be several collection points in Zoetermeer as well: "If everyone contributes, then everyone can participate."
Piezo
Piëzo is also enthusiastic about the collaboration. The organization is involved in many initiatives aimed at strengthening residents in vulnerable situations. Mirjam van Bijnen, executive director of Piëzo: "Everyone should be able to participate, even if there is no money at home for sports equipment. Together with the Sportspullenbank we make that possible."
The municipality warmly supports this initiative and hopes that many residents will do their part. Sports equipment that is still usable can be handed in in the collection bins from June 25 at basketball club Zoebas, soccer club FC Zoetermeer and running club Road Runners. Other sports associations that also want to become a collection point are welcome to join this initiative. This way you help someone else and give sports equipment a second chance.
