LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky's eighth annual Thrift Shop Pop Up collected a record 1,893 pounds of donations this spring, giving more than 330 students the chance to shop for free clothing, shoes and accessories while supporting the campus' sustainability mission.

The event, organized by UK Recycling in Facilities Management in partnership with The Thrifty Cat, Wildcat Wardrobe and Student Organizations and Activities, kept useable items out of landfills while addressing student financial barriers. Of the total donations, 857 pounds were redistributed directly to students, while the remaining 1,036 pounds went to The Thrifty Cat, UK's campus free store launched last October.

"This year's Thrift Shop Pop Up was a success because of strong student engagement, effective promotion and the support of all the volunteers and partners," said Erin Geibel, recycling coordinator in Facilities Management. "We also received generous donations from staff, faculty, students and the broader community."

The event represents part of a broader shift on campus toward reuse and circular economy practices. UK's sustainability initiatives aim to transform how students engage with consumption and waste. By providing free access to quality clothing, the Pop-Up helps reduce financial strain while lowering the fashion industry's resource-intensive environmental footprint.

"Extending the life of clothing through reuse helps lower carbon emissions and water usage," Geibel said. "It also encourages more mindful consumption habits and supports a circular economy."

Shelby Rockwell, a dietetics freshman, expressed surprise at the selection. "I didn't expect there to be this many clothes. I try to thrift when I can because it's so expensive in store. I like to give clothes a new life."

Makelah Arzu-Porter, a communication sophomore, said the event helped her prepare for a professional internship. "Thrifting gives you a chance to find clothes that fit your price without going to traditional stores and paying a lot of money for them."

Organizers gathered formal student feedback for the first time this year, with attendees requesting more frequent events, greater variety, and better organization by sizing. Geibel said this input will shape future pop-ups. Students can thrift year-round at The Thrifty Cat in the Blazer Dining building basement, which also offers furniture, dorm essentials and textbooks at no cost.