Specsavers stores across Merseyside to help feed thousands this Christmas

Specsavers stores across Merseyside have joined forces to support key food banks across the city, just in time for Christmas.

They join numerous other Specsavers stores across the North West region who have made the same commitment.

The stores have all committed to donating funds between 30 November and 13 December 2020 and aim to also collect more donations from customers via a series of specially set up JustGiving pages.

Collectively, they hope to raise thousands of pounds for food banks, benefitting local families, making a real difference in their communities during the festive season.

Donations will be sent directly to either independent food banks or through The Trussell Trust, which manages community food banks across the region, so Specsavers stores are able to support the communities closest to them.

Each store has committed to donating funds raised to a food bank in their neighbourhood, to ensure they are directly supporting residents and families close by.

Having witnessed first-hand the hardships faced by local communities this year, Specsavers teams across the region felt very strongly about helping.

Specsavers initially approached Liverpool City Council to help coordinate its Merseyside- based cash donations, which is expected to be one of the largest this year.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, Councillor Liz Parsons, said: ‘We were delighted to help Specsavers stores across Merseyside to coordinate donations to food banks – this includes the The Trussell Trust who we work very closely with. Christmas is going to be even more difficult for many people in our communities this year – so this kind of community kindness and action will make a big difference.’

Paul Stanway, director at Old Swan, Norris Green and Rice Lane (Walton) stores says: ‘We know what an incredibly difficult year it’s been for our local communities due to the impact of the pandemic. We see people from our nearby communities every day in our stores and hear their stories – so we feel very strongly about doing our bit to support them.

‘The response from fellow stores across the region has been incredible and we hope to raise a lot of money to help those who really need it.

‘Funds raised for food banks near to our stores will mean much needed grocery supplies can be bought to give directly to families in need in our communities, helping them to get through the festivities and school holidays with plenty to eat.’

Food bank use has climbed significantly this year in the UK and food poverty continues to grow. As a result of the donations, it is hoped that food banks are able to provide even more support and wrap-around services to the increasing amounts of people being referred to them.

Specsavers stores throughout England remain open for all eye care and hearing needs in accordance with government guidelines. To find out more information, request an appointment or browse the online store, visitwww.specsavers.co.uk/stores