Money saved while working at home in pandemic could make a big difference for Wigan charity

Some employees could be saving hundreds of pounds a month during the national lockdown, as they are not paying for travel and may not be buying lunches, hot drinks and snacks.

So Wigan charity The Brick is asking people to donate that cash to help support people across the borough who are facing homelessness and poverty.

It is hoped the Donate Your Commute campaign could raise £2,000 and make a real difference for people in need.

Jane Webb, marketing and fund-raising co-ordinator at The Brick, said: “While many people have lost jobs and are suffering financial hardship, some workers working from home are finding themselves better off because they are not spending money on things like travel or eating out.

“We are supporting more people and families than ever before, due to the pandemic, and with our charity shops closed and many fund-raising events on pause, we urgently need help from our community to continue to support those in need.A donation equivalent of your lunchtime coffee for a week would give someone struggling to put food on the table an emergency food parcel for five days. A donation of the cost of a weekly train ticket could provide new bedding and curtains for a person moving out of emergency accommodation into their own home.”

The Brick has seen a massive increase in the number of people seeking help due to the pandemic, with the number of food parcels handed out increasing by 150 per cent.

Changes were made to the way the charity operates so it could continue helping people, for example all food was delivered to those who needed it rather than being collected, and a food club was launched where people were asked to pay a small amount for items.

But more funds are always needed, particularly due to the closure of its shops during the national lockdown and many fund-raising events and challenges being cancelled.To donate, visit www.thebrick.org.uk.

If you are in need of support, call 01942 236953 or email [email protected]

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