We have begun our winter campaign to deliver presents, winter warmth items and support to customers in need over the holidays and colder months. More than 450 families have been supported so far this year, which is more than double last year’s total.
At this time of year we ask all colleagues, as well as partner contractors and community partners, to refer any households that they know may be struggling to afford essential items. We then put a package together to help customers keep warm and well and enjoy some of the Christmas festivities, including food, or toys for children.
Our contractors also donate generously to the winter campaign every year, contributing a collective £10,000 to date for 2024 as well as items including electric blankets, slow cookers, and toys for specific gift bundles.
Over the last few weeks, Plus Dane colleagues across the business have been volunteering to sort, wrap and deliver toys and festive care packages, as well as helping community organisations with their own Christmas campaigns. This year we have provided £12,500 in grants to help groups reach out to their communities to spread some Christmas cheer.
In another example of the generosity of our colleagues, this month a group of 12 raised nearly £5,000 for Cash for Kids with a sponsored abseil. In return, Cash for Kids provides toys that we distribute to families in need in our communities as part of the winter campaign.
In Runcorn, we have joined up with Onward Homes to provide vouchers for the town’s Community Shop to help households buy affordable food in the lead up to Christmas.
Howard Cover, Director of Communities at Plus Dane, said: “We know the winter campaign makes the world of difference to families and those in our communities who struggle at this time of year.
“A huge thank you to our colleagues, contractors and partners who have contributed, volunteered and helped get the campaign off to such a strong start.”
