Schools signed up to sport kit recycle scheme
MORE than 40 Halton schools are already supporting a newly launched project designed to collect unwanted sportswear and sports equipment from pupils and families.
ReSport Halton is taking donated items, laundering clothes and cleaning sports equipment before offering it for free in both towns.
The proceeds are designed to go to those who are disadvantaged in some way and unable to access sporting opportunities that others are able to.
The project is being delivered by the Cathie Stankevitch Foundation in Runcorn and Widnes.
John Stankevitch from the charity said: “Since the project launch on February 1, I have been inundated with emails and calls from headteachers, PE teachers and school governors offering their support to the ReSport Halton project and it is clear from the many conversations I’ve had that there is a real need for this.
“Published statistics show that Halton is an area which has high levels of poverty and deprivation and it is no secret that many families are just about getting through each day, with the finances that they have available.
“Priorities payments for local families include paying for their accommodation, heating, water and food, and some are only just managing to get by.
“There isn’t a lot of money left for things like sports clubs for the children and young people, and finding the money to buy suitable sportswear and sports equipment is extremely challenging.”
More than half of Halton’s schools have already received the ReSport flyers and they are well under way in distributing the information to their pupils, parents and teachers.
The majority of schools in the borough will act as collection points for the donated items while Co-op stores and community centres will also become drop off points to donate.
John added: “I am urging local people to take a look in their drawers, cupboards, sheds and garages for any sportswear and sports equipment that they no longer need.
“Maybe you have sportswear that is now too small or too big, that could be redistributed to somebody local that is desperate for a little help?
“Maybe you have sports equipment from a sport that you no longer play, that could be put back into use?
“We are only looking for items that are in good condition and still fit for purpose but I know from my own home, I’ve found things in the back of cupboards and drawers that I had completely forgotten about”
The Cathie Stankevitch Foundation recently launched a website for the ReSport Halton project featuring all the information and contact points that residents will need to engage with the initiative.
For more information email john@resportuk.com or visit www. resportuk.com