How you can help the homeless by waving your bank card at a window
A DERBY charity shop has installed a donation window scanner so those walking past can support the homeless. The Covid-friendly innovation has been launched at the Padley Group’s East Street store, in Derby city centre. Without having to step foot inside the building, people can tap their bank card or smartphone on the contactless payment point and donate £3, even when the shop is closed. The charity has been supporting people experiencing homelessness in Derby since 1985. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Padley House has put up donations from the people of Derby and Derbyshire. We hope this new way of giving, kindly provided by Griffiths Foods, will encourage those passing along East Street to contribute to our work with homeless people in what are very challenging times. And it couldn’t be easier!” During the lockdown period, more than 100 people in temporary accommodation were provided with two meals a day by the Padley catering team. Since the end of June when lockdown restrictions were eased, a takeaway door service has resumed at Padley House for those who are sleeping rough or in accommodation with no access to food or cooking equipment, with bookable appointments also available for a shower and support. Liz Fothergill CBE, the newlyappointed Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, was there to help launch the new initiative. She said: “It was a delight to visit the Padley Hub and learn about the launch of the contactless window donations. “What a great idea, an innovative and easy way to donate safely and securely toward the amazing work of Padley, helping those in our community who have fallen on difficult and challenging times, their caring proactive support has enabled so many to turn their lives around and get into secure homes with hope for a better future. “Please give generously and enable this fantastic work to continue.”