Stockport based Grassroots Recruitment is calling for local businesses to join them in supporting The Rucksack Project, a community initiative to help homeless people through the harsh season ahead.
Led by a network of local volunteers and coordinated through social media, the project which has been running since 2009 gives thousands of rucksacks filled with essentials to those who need them.
Last year, at least 449 homeless people tragically died in the UK alone – at least 65 of them on the streets. The homeless crisis has increasingly become a high statistic, especially in Greater Manchester, with numbers quadrupling since 2010 and gradually rising.
In Stockport, the Rucksack Project is run with the support of The Wellspring, a resource centre for homeless and disadvantaged people. Based on Harvey Street in the town centre, the centre provides practical support as well as hot showers, clean clothing and gourmet food from a team of dedicated volunteers.
As the nights turn colder, the support for local homeless and vulnerable people is incredibly important. Grassroots is therefore asking the generous people of Stockport to help keep rough sleepers well equipped this winter. Donations can be used or second-hand items, from charity shops or rummaging through your own wardrobe at home.
The items that are needed the most include:
– Rucksack
– Fleece/Jumper/Jacket
– Hat/Scarf/Gloves
– Socks
– Underwear
– Toothbrush
– Sleeping bag
– Flask
– Tins of beans/soup etc (with ring pull)
– Spoon
– Crossword puzzles/searches/pens etc.
Complete rucksacks will be gratefully received, but as it’s not always affordable, you can donate any items listed above individually and Grassroots will do their best to top them up.
Caroline Patten, director at Grassroots Recruitment explains:
“We are desperately trying to bring the project to people’s attention in hope to provide as many rucksacks as possible to those who need it to survive the winter. The Wellspring has been our charity of the year for 2018 and we really hope we can make a difference!”
If anyone would like to donate, you can drop by the Grassroots office in Suite 2, 9th Floor Regent House Monday – Friday from 9am until 5pm and put your items in the boxes. Or, alternatively, you can drop your items off at The Wellspring (Harvey Street, Stockport. SK1 1YD) or any of their collection points before 3rd December.