ROSSENDALE REVEALED

BARRY Hyde, member of the Promoting Rossendale Partnership Board, takes a look at supermarkets supporting the community.

There are many amazing community groups and organisations that work to support the Rossendale community. What many do not know is that supermarkets such as Tesco, Asda and Morrisons work extremely hard to support those groups and community initiatives in a number of ways. They provide opportunities for groups and charities to raise funds through direct in-store fundraising or bag packs and some groups such as choirs and brass bands perform in-store to raise funds for their groups. Tesco Haslingden had a book sale last year, which raised more than £2.5K for local charities and Asda Rawtenstall even hosted a wedding reception. There are also store projects that provide significant funds for groups through such things as nominated charity initiatives and book sales. Supermarkets are extremely active in supporting food groups and support networks through food donations that are so vital to those in need in our communities. Tesco, Asda and other supermarkets have funding streams that are accessible to community groups to help support specific community projects. Much of the community engagement is carried out by dedicated Community Champions such as Colette Butler at Tesco Haslingden and Laura Saxton at Asda Rawtenstall, who not only support activities within their stores but also go out into the community supporting groups and initiatives that benefit the whole Rossendale community.

The support given, particularly through in-store fundraising and the donation of food items, relies totally on the generosity of their customers and this is likely to be the case for the foreseeable future. They can also offer other facilities to local groups. So for further information of how your donation can help, or for information on community funding, please contact the supermarket community champion.