Fredericton — With the rising price of school supplies and back-to-school clothing, one woman has found an easy solution that suits her family.
“I realized when I was out for a jog that there are clothes strewn around everywhere, on the trail and in the ditches, and even in trees,” said Bailey Arbeau, 43, of Nashwaaksis. “So, I started looking through them and found some pieces that will be perfect for my kids. Once I wash out the urine and cigarette smell, they’ll be good as new!”
Arbeau said she has slowly been priced out of most school supplies.
“Even at Walmart I can’t seem to get affordable fall and winter clothes. But the trails have something for everyone! My son loves the jeans I found lying next to a dumpster — they’re a little big, but he’ll grow into them! And my daughter thinks the boots I found out behind Dooly’s are just her style — pretty worn out, but she said the ‘distressed’ look is cool.”
Beyond just clothing, Arbeau said other supplies are available along the trails, if you look hard enough.
“I found a backpack over by Superstore,” she said, “and all I had to do was empty out the pull-tabs and beer cans, and give it a wash, and it’s going to be great for my son. I also lucked into some paper, pens and markets that fell out of a garbage bag that someone left right in the middle of the trail.”
Arbeau claims the only downside to her method is the danger of encountering drug paraphernalia, but it’s a risk she’s willing to take to save money.
“Of course, there are meth pipes lying around and used syringes, but I’m telling you, there’s no need to get financial assistance — just go for a walk anywhere in this city and find everything you need.”