245 children benefit from Gateshead school uniform project
By Charities Correspondent
Hundreds of children in Gateshead have been given a helping hand ahead of the new school term, thanks to a community project providing free uniforms, coats and shoes.
The Salvation Army’s annual Every Child Warm project supported 245 children from 122 families over two days in August.
Families were invited to choose school clothes, coats and shoes, with children able to try items on with the help of a personal shopper. Food, crafts and activities were also provided to make the experience a fun and welcoming one.
The project focuses particularly on coats and school shoes, helping families with some of the most expensive items to buy.
Ann Humes, who leads Every Child Warm, said:
“Across the two days we gave items to 245 children from 122 families. Families are telling us how much this helps them because the cost of uniforms is so high, especially if you have more than one child.”
Children also received books donated by the Kittiwake Trust, while new school shirts, rucksacks, toiletries and fruit bags were among the other items provided.
The project is supported by SATCoL, Gateshead Council, Tesco, Kittiwake Trust and local church members, with donations collected throughout the year.
Captain Tony Kakande, who leads Gateshead Salvation Army, said the project shows the strength of the local community.
“It’s so well supported by the community and our church members, who provide many of the items or give up their time to ensure it runs like clockwork,” he said.
“People know they're welcome, and they told us they’ve been very moved by the support they’ve received.”
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The Salvation Army said the project aims not only to help families with the cost of going back to school, but also to ensure children start the new term feeling warm, confident and ready to learn.
