The donations were collected through the company’s network of 640 pubs. Craft Union pubs typically serve as community hubs. The pub company aimed to aid those in need this year with a mass donation to eight key charities across the country.
A critical time
The donations arrived at a critical time, leading homeless charity The Big issue, reported that throughout 2023, 1,474 homeless people died within one year, a 12% increase seen from the previous year.
With the arrival of colder weather, including Storm Darragh and snowy conditions, the need for warmer clothing and support has never been greater.
Research from Age UK reveals that 60% of over-60s on low incomes have cut back on heating or powering their homes. According to the charity, 54% of older adults are also worried about paying energy bills throughout winter.
The donations are part of Craft Union’s ambitious ‘Make it a Million’ campaign.
The campaign aims to raise £1m for local causes through its network of more than 600 pubs by February 2025. With over £813,000 currently raised, the campaign continues to rally communities in order to support those in need.
Surpassed expectations
Craft Union pubs have acted as collection points for clothing and supplies donations throughout the past month, with support from local residents.
This week, the final donations were handed over, with Craft Union pubs presenting 4,000 items of clothing to eight shelters and hospices across the UK.
Managing Director of Craft Union, Frazer Grimbleby, said: “As temperatures drop and stormy weather sets in, ensuring those less fortunate in our communities have access to warm clothing is more crucial than ever”.
He added: “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our communities and the efforts of our colleagues, we’ve surpassed all expectations by donating over 4,000 items of clothing to various shelters and hospices across the country.
And this is just the beginning - there’s much more fundraising to come in 2025”.
