Fashion Show Highlights Stories of Workers with Disabilities

A fashion show held in Haifa showcased the personal stories of approximately 15 individuals facing employment challenges due to mental health issues or physical disabilities. The event celebrated the opening of the new northern logistics center for "Dandasha," a second-hand fashion chain owned by the "Shukulo Tov" group. Participants, who normally prepare clothes for sale, walked the runway, modeling outfits they helped select with their daily work supervisors. All items featured in the show were sourced from the chain's inventory, reflecting the participants' individual tastes and preferences.

The fashion show aimed to connect the two aspects of a garment's journey: its preparation for sale and its role in personal expression through style. For the participants, who are intimately familiar with the process of sorting and preparing clothes, this was an opportunity to experience the creative side of styling and presentation. Among those featured was S.Z., who became partially paralyzed after a stroke in his forties and now works at the logistics center preparing clothes for Dandasha stores.

L.B., 45, from Kiryat Ata, who was born with cerebral palsy and has undergone multiple surgeries, found a new career path at Dandasha after leaving a factory job. She learned to fold and sort clothes by color and aims to eventually integrate into the open job market, with her passion for fashion guiding her professional aspirations. Online worker O.H., 39, from Kiryat Motzkin, who also has cerebral palsy and uses crutches, inputs data for photographed items destined for online sales. She previously worked in administrative roles and joined Dandasha after struggling to find employment during wartime, aspiring to a role where she can help others and start a family.

O.E., 45, from Kiryat Haim, who has a mild intellectual disability, sees her work with clothes as a foundation for the future, envisioning a customer-facing role. N.K., born with cerebral palsy, has successfully transitioned into the open job market over the past year with ongoing support. Dandasha's new Haifa location, its third in the area, is its first to offer men's and children's clothing alongside women's wear. The center also integrates vocational training for individuals receiving support from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services.

Hani Itzhaki, Marketing Vice President of the "Shukulo Tov" group, stated that the new 300-square-meter facility represents a significant investment and reflects growing customer demand and trust in the brand. With 13 branches nationwide, Dandasha is solidifying its position as a leading second-hand fashion chain in Israel, promoting conscious consumption with its diverse and frequently updated inventory and high-standard shopping experience.