ROTTERDAM, 3 June 2025 – A new second-hand shop with a charitable mission is set to open in Hillegersberg. Terre des Hommes brings its 43rd Dutch store to Rotterdam, offering upcycled items and opportunities for local volunteers.
Terre des Hommes opens charity shop in Hillegersberg
A new Terre des Hommes charity shop will officially open in Rotterdam's Hillegersberg district on Saturday 14 June. The store, located at Bergse Dorpsstraat 109A, marks the 43rd Dutch location for the organisation, which has been active in the Netherlands since 1966.
To mark the occasion, a modest opening event has been planned. Caroline Engels-Alkemade, neighbourhood chair for Hillegersberg, will perform the official opening at 11:00. A small fashion show is scheduled, and attendees will have a chance to win prizes.
A different kind of second-hand shop
Unlike other Terre des Hommes shops, the Hillegersberg location will feature specially crafted items under the label ‘Designed to be kind’. These include bags made from old denim trousers and cushion covers sewn from recycled denim threads, available only at the Rotterdam store.
Frank van Nederveen, regional coordinator at Terre des Hommes, noted: “The upcycled pieces are unique to this shop and give new life to discarded textiles.”
The shop will primarily offer second-hand clothing, shoes and accessories that are in near-new condition. Some of the bags and aprons in stock have been designed and sewn by one of the shop’s volunteers.
Volunteers running the store
The shop is managed by a team of dedicated volunteers. Although many positions have already been filled, there is still room for additional help.
“It has been inspiring to see new volunteers join with such enthusiasm,” said Van Nederveen. “The energy in the team is excellent. Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to stop by for a chat.”
Donating as a gift
Visitors are encouraged to attend the opening and, if they wish, bring along donations of gently used women’s clothing and accessories. The shop exclusively sells items for women, and suggested donations include summer dresses, shoes, bags and jewellery.
Van Nederveen added: “Bringing something you no longer wear is a meaningful way to support our mission.”
Address and opening hours
The Terre des Hommes shop is located at Bergse Dorpsstraat 109A in Hillegersberg, a residential neighbourhood in northern Rotterdam known for its village-like charm and independent shops. The store is currently open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from 13:30 to 17:30.
Getting there
The shop is situated in the heart of Hillegersberg, easily accessible by tram and bicycle. Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours. The area is known for its leafy streets, boutique stores and proximity to the Bergse Plassen.
