Move-out week is one of the busiest weeks in Oxford. Many students leave Oxford during the summer, and simply cannot take everything with them. Much of the trash standing along the streets during move-out week includes items that can be reused. In early 2005, a small group of concerned citizens, City staff and service organization members founded ShareFest to collect such items. Collection of items prevents waste and promotes cleanliness. Best of all, helps people in-need.
ShareFest has experienced tremendous growth since beginning six years ago. In 2005, 65 families were served, followed by 270 in 2006, over 300 in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, ShareFest served over 600 families!
In some cases, families were able to fill entire homes with items such as couches, dressers, desks and kitchen tables. In addition, many teenagers received high-quality clothing items. Items are distributed by organizations such as the Family Resource Center, Butler County Children Services and Lighthouse Food Pantry, in addition to many other participating agencies.
In 2010, the ShareFest Committee allowed partnering agencies to sell the collected items, as long as the proceeds benefit their clients. This policy change was very well-received by the Miami University and Oxford community, and will continue in 2011.
