Contactless Giving for Stratford Homeless

Stratford makes donating to homeless people safe and hassle-free with technology.

17:08 01 June 2021

Two contactless giving points have been set up in Stratford for people who wish to make donations to homeless people and those at risk of homelessness. 

 

Interested parties who wish to help raise money for the needy can head to the Visitor Information Centre at Bridgeway and HR Coffee Bar in Windsor Street. Organisations that work with vulnerable individuals across the districts allow for quick donations of £3. 

 

The central pot of money is to be managed by Stratford Town Trust and the Fred Winter Centre, which is due to open in the summer. 

 

Cllr Christopher Kettle, community protection portfolio holder at Stratford District Council, said: “Residents and visitors will always find it a concern to see people homeless on the streets of our towns and, for many, their natural instincts are to give to help support them. But there is often a nagging doubt as to where the money goes and what it is used for.

 

“As contactless payments increase, and especially now when many people prefer not to use cash, the Meaningful Change programme allows people with or without cash to give to support those on the street whilst ensuring that their donation is used to directly benefit and support those people.

 

“Meaningful Change is a great example of how technology is playing a role in helping society support those who need our help to come off the streets, with targeted help to address their individual needs. Fundamentally it is about the person, and it will be different for everyone.

 

“As the scheme develops, we would very much hope more businesses will become involved and we look forward to welcoming them coming on board to help support the Meaningful Change campaign.”