Charity offering a warm coat for free on its ‘kindness rail’
A LOCAL charity is offering free coats to islanders who may be struggling this winter.
Health Connections in Market Square has a display rail outside of the shop with high quality waterproof and windproof coats all free to take away.
‘While we know that buying in charity shops gives people access to goods at an affordable price, it is still clear that there are some circumstances when buying items for ourselves, family and friends can be a challenge,’ said Kate Bridges, the shop’s operations manager.
‘We know from conversations with customers on the shop floor that there are many people in our community who are struggling or who are looking out for others who find life challenging, but who don’t have funds to spare to buy vital goods like warm coats and hats for other people.
‘By offering a “kindness rail” anyone can pick up these items for themselves or to give them on to someone else.’
The team chats regularly about how it can further support the community through the shops and services that it raises money for, and the ‘kindness rail’ was the idea of Agi Savcenko as a way of providing direct support.
Health Connections is also accepting donations, looking specifically for waterproof and windproof coats in any size and for any age.
Mrs Bridges said the focus was on coats because they are one of the most expensive clothing purchases that people will make, and can be much more of an investment than other clothing items.
‘Sometimes having a spare hat and coat when the weather’s bad can be a real blessing, but this option might not be available to everyone,’ said Mrs Bridges.
‘By sharing the kindness offered to us by those who donate we hope we can make it easier for people who are on a limited income.’
Coat donations can be dropped off at the shop in Market Square between 10am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
