About Us
Colours of community
What to know how it all began and what we are all about? Read our story
Our Story
Welcome to Omagh Uniform Exchange, a community-led organization born in the challenging summer of 2020 during the pandemic. Established to meet the immediate needs of a tumultuous school year, our humble idea of uniform exchange has grown into a robust network of helping hands across the Greater Omagh area. Today, we take immense pride in assisting over 3,000 families and continue to grow, with our roots firmly planted in sustainability and social responsibility.
Our mission at Omagh Uniform Exchange is simple. We strive to provide a neutral platform where families can donate and receive school uniforms without any preconditions or bias. We believe in promoting dignity and reducing financial stress for families preparing for the new school year. Our endeavor is rooted in the principle of inclusivity, catering to everyone, with no hierarchy of need. We operate on an honesty-based system, encouraging members to take only what they need, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect.
Our vision extends beyond just a uniform exchange. We aim to create an environment where every family can equip their children for school without any financial burden, to make sure that each September, our children stride into their classrooms, heads held high in pride, fully kitted out in their school attire.
We owe our success to our founders, Cathy Mc Namee, a teacher, and Dawn Little, a counsellor, who instigated this initiative. Our team, a vibrant mosaic of volunteers from all walks of life, share a common mission - to ensure every child in our community starts their academic year off with confidence and pride.
At Omagh Uniform Exchange, we cater to all your school uniform needs. From nursery to primary to secondary school uniforms, PE kits, school bags, lunch boxes, shoes to sports equipment, our offerings cover the gamut of school necessities. We operate from St. Joseph's Hall on Church Street, Omagh, transforming it into a lively pop-up shop each August.
Recognition or awards have never been our pursuit. Instead, we find our reward in the backing we receive from local charities, healthcare organizations, and above all, the tangible impact we make in our community. We are content to operate behind the scenes, dedicated to serving families and children.
Stay connected with us through Facebook, Instagram, our website, or simply give us a call. We are here to support, to exchange, and to create a community where everyone has access to a comfortable and dignified school experience.
Welcome to the family of Omagh Uniform Exchange.