A MUCH-loved charity shop in Stroud is facing financial pressure that could risk its future ahead of its 10th anniversary.
Known for its community service, Rasmachaz is hosting a fundraising event at Stroud Brewery on Monday, January 19.
From 7pm to 9.30pm, the shop, which supports displaced people, will celebrate its 10-year anniversary with a special upcycling evening, including a workshop, clothing repair activities, curated clothing rails and a DJ set from Lawrence Kapoor.
The event aims to celebrate Rasmachaz’s ten years of service to the community while encouraging donations and local involvement to help keep the shop open.
Over the years Rasmachaz, formerly known as Refugee Aid Stroud, has provided clothing, shoes, books and household items to families at affordable prices.
The venture took off after activist, Hassan Akkad, inspired people in Stroud to support displaced people across Europe, especially those arriving in Greece and Calais.
This led to the formation of Refugee Aid Stroud, which received a warehouse from Stroud District Council to handle the large amount of donations.
Volunteers assembled emergency packs that were sent directly to Syrian families arriving on the Greek islands, while others travelled to Samos and different camps to support frontline efforts.
A small committee was formed to ensure funds were distributed responsibly through trusted contacts, preventing waste and enabling rapid response.
In response to calls to support people locally as well as abroad, the team also organised clothing and blanket collections for homeless shelters and churches in the area.
After the French government cleared the Calais ‘Jungle’ and imposed restrictions on aid groups, Rasmachaz shifted its support to the Refugee Community Kitchen (RCK), a trusted volunteer-led organisation continuing to provide meals for displaced young people in northern France.
As Rasmachaz approaches its tenth anniversary, the team said it would like to thank the residents of Stroud for their support, energy and commitment throughout the years.
A spokesperson said: “The anniversary reflects not just the endurance of the shop, but the collective strength of the community that built it.”