Age UK shops launch spring stock appeal
Published on 13 March 2015 02:30 PM
With Spring just around the corner, we're calling on you to join in with our nationwide stock appeal.
The Big Bag Challenge encourages everyone to have a clear out and donate any unwanted items to their local Age UK shop to help us combat loneliness amongst older people.
Age UK recently revealed that 1 in 4 (2.9million) people aged 65 and over feel they have no one to go to for help and support. The Big Bag Challenge calls upon people across the country to donate as many bags of quality goods, including clothing, shoes, books, accessories and homewares, as possible to their local Age UK shop.
The challenge
The goal is to get 100,000 bags in just two weeks, helping the Charity raise much-needed funds to support vital national and local services which often provide the only contact some older people have.
Hugh Forde, Managing Director for Retail at Age UK, said: ‘We all feel much better after a thorough Spring Clean, which is why we are asking everyone to clear out their clutter and join The Big Bag Challenge, donating any items they no longer want or need to their local Age UK shop.
‘Instead of gathering dust or taking up valuable space at home, items will be sold on to be loved again, helping generate much-needed funds for the Charity's work with older people.'
How your donations will help
The money raised from The Big Bag Challenge will help Age UK continue to support the millions of older people who are facing later life alone, enabling the Charity to provide companionships, support and advice, as well as its free national advice line (open 365 days a year) and vital campaigning work.
Age UK works tirelessly to influence politicians and decision makers on issues that affect older people every day, such as pensions, care provision and fuel poverty.
With over 430 shops across the country, Age UK accepts donations of a variety of items, including clothing; shoes and accessories; as well as homewares and electrical items (in certain stores); books and games*. Go to www.ageuk.org.uk/bigbagchallenge to find your local store and get more information.
* Donations can be maximised by signing up to gift aid. Simply completing a basic form when you donate good means that Age UK will receive an extra 25p for every £1 raised form donations from the Government. The extra money doesn't cost a penny and will help raise vital funds for people in later life.