Churches from the Redditch Mission Area are planning to make use of a unit at the Kingfisher Shopping Centre once more this summer, launching a new initiative called ‘Bags of Hope’ to support families across Redditch and show Christ’s love. On 22 August families will be able to visit the 'shop' and choose the school bags, stationery and supplies they need to start the new school year equipped and ready. The organisers are asking for donations to support families most in need!
Just like Redditch’s Make Christmas Special toy appeal, which supported more than 1,500 children from disadvantaged families last Christmas, Volunteers from churches across the Redditch Mission Area will set up the donated unit in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre like a shop, leaving parents and children free to peruse and select what bags and supplies they would like. They are partnering with Redditch Borough Council who will signpost the project to families receiving donations of uniform.
Elaine Whitfield who is co-ordinating the project said:
“While much of Redditch appears affluent there are pockets of deprivation in many of our communities and buying new equipment for school can be an expensive time. Bags of Hope will support struggling families to begin the new academic year with dignity, confidence and hope.”
“As families are welcomed to the Hub, where appropriate they will also be offered prayer and signposted to children's, youth and family activities. As every neighbourhood in Redditch is served by a Mission Area church, there is a natural pathway from conversations at the Hub to opportunities to connect in with their nearest church community and ongoing pastoral support.”
Please donate!
To meet demand the project needs donations of bags, water bottles, lunch boxes, pencil cases, pens, pencils, maths sets, stationery, erasers etc that are either brand new, unused or in very good condition.
If you can help, please contact Elaine Whitfield on Tel: 07836 644 445 or email Elaine@cofe-redditch.org.uk.
Alternatively, monetary donations would be appreciated so they can purchase what they need.
The account details are as follows:
- Account name: Redditch Mission Area
- Sort code: 52-10-23
- Account Number: 11645164
Please use the reference: Bags of Hope
Thank you!
