Hey Homie, I love what you're doing

This streetwear brand is changing the game for people who are homeless.

I received an email yesterday that made my heart warm.

It said this:

‘The VIP Program is HoMie’s very first social impact program. It started before we even had a store - and has now supported over 3435+ young people affected by homelessness or hardship.

At the core of the VIP Program are our famous VIP Days, where HoMie closes our shop to the public and invites young people affected by homelessness or hardship to come in and shop for free. Each VIP can select five items of brand-new HoMie clothing, receive haircuts, nail and beauty services, personal care packs, and customise the clothing items they have chosen, all while enjoying lunch with the HoMie team’.

Never heard of HoMie? Let me tell you about them.

HoMie is a Melbourne-based streetwear label and social enterprise dedicated to supporting young people affected by homelessness or hardship.

Founded in 2015 by Nick Pearce, Marcus Crook, and Rob Gillies, the initiative began as a Facebook page called "Homeless of Melbourne," aiming to humanise and share the stories of individuals experiencing homelessness.

The founders' desire to make a tangible impact led them to organise Australia's first pop-up 'Street Store' in Melbourne's Federation Square.

This event provided a dignified shopping experience where individuals in need could select clothing for free, receive haircuts, and enjoy meals.

Building on the success of this initiative, HoMie evolved into a permanent retail space, offering its own line of streetwear.

The brand allocates 100% of its profits to programs designed to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary for employment and personal development.

In 2019, HoMie launched the "REBORN" initiative, focusing on ‘upcycling’ unsold garments to address fashion industry waste.

This program has repurposed over 2,700 pieces, transforming them into unique, sustainable fashion items.

Through its innovative blend of fashion and social impact, HoMie continues to challenge stereotypes surrounding homelessness and fosters community engagement.

I own a couple of HoMie hoodies.

If you can support them and buy some clothing, please do.

Here’s the link.