Introduction

ShareCircle is an application that allows users to post surplus food, clothes, or resources they no longer need to a dashboard. Others nearby can then claim them — creating a mini Craigslist for survival needs. This will help reduce waste, fight poverty, and strengthen local community support networks by making sharing easier, faster, and more transparent.

Technical Description

This platform enables seamless, community sharing of surplus food and household resources by connecting donors, recipients, and volunteers through a verified community network. It offers smart matching, impact tracking, and transparent logistics to support households in reducing waste as well as building resilient and caring communities.

Getting Started / How to Use the Application

1. Open-Source Application does not require login to view/browse items on community feed; allowing easy access for those digitally illiterate
2. Use the "Post Item" button to post items the user no longer needs
3. Each "Post Item" allows one type of item to be posted at a time
4. "Map" button allows user to view available items within their radius to reduce logistical difficulties
5. "Filter" buttons and "Search" function for quick finds on desired item(s)
6. "Sort By" function allows items to be listed in a chronological order for easy viewing
7. Once desired item is found, click the "Claim item" button to notify the donator and user that the item is reserved
8. Donator will communicate with user on desired way(s) to collect the item(s)

Functionalities

• Donor Management Portal: A secure form allows donors to easily list surplus items; enriching posts with descriptions, images, and pick-up details
• Dynamic Community Feed: A real-time, browsable, card-based feed that displays all available and claimable items within the user's network
• Privacy-First Claim System: An anonymous, one-click reservation function allows recipients to claim items discreetly, protecting user privacy while facilitating quick distribution
• Intelligent Discovery Tools: Advanced filters and a search function enable users to efficiently navigate listings by category, location, dietary need, or item type
• Geo-Aware Matching: Integrated mapping and an automated "Nearby Items" engine surface available resources within a user-configured radius, optimising local sharing and reducing logistical friction
• Community Amplification: Integrated link sharing allows users to easily propagate listings across social networks and community channels, expanding reach and engagement

References