What may seem like a typical thrift shop could not be further from the truth when you visit Yada Fair Trade + Resale, owned and run by Beth Williams. True to the Hebrew meaning of Yada, “to know,” this Middleton non-profit seeks to give exploited and trafficked women in our community a place to be known in a meaningful way. Their mission is to help survivors move from surviving to thriving.
“These women need community: a place where they have encouragement and advocates. We walk alongside them in whatever they need,” says Beth.
After seeing the reality of sex trafficking during her family’s mission trips, Beth began to notice the signs that often accompany this crisis. She didn’t expect to see those signs here.
“My heart was already stirred in the global sense and when I became aware of what was happening here, in Madison, Yada was born” explains Beth.
Yada Fair Trade + Resale sells fair trade products made by survivors worldwide, while also providing clothing and houseware items in a boutique-style environment for exploited women and children to come and shop for free. In addition, they focus on meeting tangible needs, providing a car care clinic, an addiction recovery group, trauma therapy, and employment opportunities to those exploited. Yada is so much more than a store and eagerly seeks to bring awareness of exploitation to our community.
“Everybody can do something, we either have time, talent, or treasure to share.”
Whether through donations, financial contributions, stopping by to shop at the store, or volunteering, Yada welcomes community involvement!
Their greatest need at the moment is for volunteers and financial support as they continue their mission to change our community for the better.
Donate: Clothing for all ages and all sizes, home goods, and furniture can be dropped off at 2620 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI 53562, during store hours, or feel free to contact them to schedule a complimentary pickup.
Volunteer: Yada always welcomes volunteers and will help you find what you are best suited to help with! Whether you're interested in volunteering at the store or in one of their other capacities, they provide training to help you jump in.
Support: You can contribute financially on the Yada Fair Trade + Resale website and 100% of financial contributions will go toward their mission.
Spread the Word: Learn how to spread the word at the Yada Fair Trade + Resale website