Specsavers stores across Cheshire have raised more than £1,750 to help those struggling in their local communities this Christmas.
With an increasing number of families needing support during this festive season due to the cost of living crisis, six Specsavers businesses across the region have joined together to support the initiative, raising the impressive total following two-weeks of fundraising.
The donation comes as food banks in the region are anticipating that this winter will be the hardest yet for the growing number of people they support.
The money has been donated to food banks located in communities closest to stores involved in the effort including Runcorn & District Foodbank, The Port Grocery CIC and Wirral Foodbank.
Chris Graham from Specsavers in Runcorn, Cheshire Oak, Ellesmere Port and Heswall, says: ‘We know what an incredibly difficult time it’s been for our local communities and the local economy as the cost of living crisis takes hold. We see people from our nearby communities every day in our stores and hear their stories – it can be incredibly upsetting, so we felt very strongly about doing our bit to support.’
Chris continues: ‘The response from fellow stores across the region has been incredible and we have all been completely overwhelmed to learn how much has been raised.
‘Funds raised will mean much needed grocery supplies can be bought to give directly to families in need in our communities, helping them to get through the festivities and school holidays with plenty to eat.’
The donations are now being sent directly to independent food banks or through The Trussell Trust, which manages many of the community food banks across the region, so Specsavers stores can support the communities closest to them.
Each store made an individual commitment to donate funds to a food bank in their neighbourhood, to ensure they are directly supporting residents and families close by. The donations will make a considerable impact to those requiring support.
Research by the Trussell Trust, published in November, revealed that for the first time, the need for emergency food is outstripping donations, with the cost of living crisis resulting in a drastic increase in the number of foodbank users. As well as a change to the profile of the typical UK food bank user, with one in five people, referred to food banks in the Trussell Trust’s network, from working households
As a result of the Specsavers’ donations, it is hoped that food banks will be able to better meet the increasing demand and offer more support and wrap-around services to those in need.
To find out more information, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores
