SEVEN Specsavers stores, including one in Warrington have raised more than £3,400 to support families in their local communities this Christmas.
Specsavers businesses across the region joined together to support the initiative, raising the impressive total in just two weeks!
The money has been donated to food banks located in communities closest to stores involved in the effort.
Chris Graham, Specsavers store director, says: ‘We know what an incredibly difficult time it’s been for our local communities and the local economy as we continue to recover from the impact of the pandemic. 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.
Food poverty is a growing issue in the UK which has been accelerated by the Covid 19 pandemic, significantly impacting families across the UK. Nationwide research by the Government’s latest Family Resources Survey shows that 5 million people lived in food poverty between 2019 – 2020. In 2020, this was 8% of the population, but data from The Food Foundation suggests food insecurity levels rose to 9% of the population in January 2021.
Food bank use has climbed significantly this year in the UK. As a result of the Specsavers’ donations, it is hoped that food banks will be able to provide even more support and wrap-around services to the increasing amounts of people being referred to them.
Specsavers stores throughout England remain open for all eye care and hearing needs in accordance with government guidelines. To find out more information, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores
