A DESPERATE plea has gone out for second-hand but serviceable school blazers and shoes as the start of the new term looms.
The appeal comes from borough Mayor Councillor Joe Baker who, for the last few years, has run a highly successful drop-in service with Redditch Labour Party where hard-up families can get their children kitted out for the autumn term.
“We’ve noticed a general increase in appeals to me this time round with ten to 15 texts a week and appeals on social media,” said Coun Baker.
“There is a definite change in atmosphere and I do believe people are in desperate need.”
He added that with new school blazers costing up to £45 each dressing a family of three children was way out of the pocket of many Redditch residents.
“In the past a lot of people have also donated Primark vouchers which are great because it means I can go there and buy the things that are needed too,” said the Mayor.
The School Uniform Clothes Bank will be held at the Ecumenical Centre in Evesham Walk on Wednesday, August 31 from 12 noon. Everyone is welcome to come along and get their children kitted out.
Those wishing to make donations can either drop them off at Omega Therapies, Newton House, Hewell Road, Redditch, B97 6AY or text Coun Baker on 078915 49333 and he will arrange for colleagues to come along and pick them up.
“I think the need is greater than ever this year and I would urge people to give a school uniform a new lease of life by donating it to this worthwhile cause,” he said.
