When Anna first discovered Olio, it was another step on her journey to live more sustainably. But she never imagined how important it would become during one of the hardest times of her life.
In 2021, Anna’s world changed when both of her parents passed away, just a day apart from each other. As an only child, she was left with the emotional task of emptying her childhood home.
“When my parents died, I had a whole house to slowly and carefully empty – a whole life of memories.”
Determined that none of her parents’ belongings should end up in landfill, Anna turned to sharing on Olio. What started as a way to share a few items became a deeply healing process.
“Giving many of their treasured possessions away on Olio really helped me work through the grief, and I helped some lovely people in the process,” she says. “Knowing that my parents’ things are living on through others brings me great comfort.”
One moment stands out: Anna had listed her mum’s dressing table and stool. A nurse, working full time and struggling to furnish her new home, came to collect it.
“When she arrived and heard my story, we both burst into tears and hugged. She was so grateful to have a lovely piece of furniture, and I was so grateful that it was going to someone so deserving.”
Over the course of 18 months, Anna continued to carefully clear her parents’ home, leaving most items in the porch for contact-free collections. While she didn’t meet everyone in person, she received message after message of thanks.
“I’m so proud to say that the only things that went to the tip were a double bed base and a very worn sofa.”
Today, Anna continues sharing on Olio, and says the app will always hold a special place in her heart.
“I think it is a very special thing, and allows treasured possessions to live on with others who need them. That is just priceless.”
What do you love the most about using Olio?
“It’s knowing that the things I no longer need are being appreciated and given a new lease of life by someone else. It’s such a simple thing, but it means the world.”