In Kind Direct distribute essential items to unite communities and bring people together

Community spaces provide a central pillar for many groups, and since many of them had their doors closed for the most part of the last year, individuals have missed out on gathering in clean, safe and warm hubs for face-to-face contact and physical interaction.  61% of UK charities within In Kind Direct’s network reported that tackling mental health issues exacerbated by the isolation and loneliness caused by the pandemic is an urgent priority in the coming months.

To help communities reunite and to encourage social interaction and connection, In Kind Direct is partnering with Amazon, Essity, P&G, PZ Cussons and Unilever to donate much needed products such as kettles, drinks, snacks and cleaning essentials.

Former Dragon and Business Ambassador for the charity Sarah Willingham comments: “It has been the small experiences that individuals have missed the most, and bringing these occasions back to communities is a vital next step in the roadmap to recovery. To have corporate partner brands donating much needed products is fantastic and we are looking forward to welcoming communities back into safe, communal spaces.”

Research carried out by In Kind Direct in January also found that:

  • 70%* of our charity network told us they are focusing on opening their facilities safely 
  • 59%* said combating increased isolation was a key area of focus  
  • 67%* of our charity network reported an increase in demand for their services 

The work of In Kind Direct, founded by HRH Prince Charles in 1996, focuses on uniting companies and communities to help those in need by distributing consumer goods donated by companies to UK charitable organisations working in the UK and overseas.

Rosanne Gray, CEO In Kind Direct, said, “We all know the value of meeting with people in person, feeling the warmth of a friendly smile is priceless! We are committed to getting much needed products to communities all over the UK to ensure some sense of normality can start to be restored. These essential products will for many individuals make the difference between socialising in a community space and continuing to be lonely. We urge more businesses to come forward to donate products or services, which In Kind Direct can distribute nationwide through our charitable network.”  

Simona, spokesperson for Cavernoma Society charity in London, adds: “We are looking forward to helping our members who have struggled due to COVID restrictions which have prevented them from attending our classes, support groups, and retreats, which ordinarily provide them with physical interaction and a sense of community. In Kind Direct is helping us put a smile on their faces during this difficult time as a result of the goods that have been available to us at a fraction of the price. Thanks to the thousands of pounds we have saved we are able to spend more on our services. We couldn’t do what we do without In Kind Direct. It’s become an imperative part of our offering.

Businesses who wish to work with In Kind Direct on an ongoing or one-off contribution can contact: donations@inkinddirect.org  

Charitable organisations seeking donations, and wider products from In Kind Direct can register via: inkinddirect.org

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