Nursing student Rahwa Asmerom tells us about a student initiative that encourages individuals to donate unused items to help a local business and foodbank spread joy this Christmas.
‘Clear Out to Help Out’ is a slogan which was created by the School President for the School of Health Sciences, Carike Barnardo, to encourage students who may be getting ready to move out, or are cleaning out their flats and come across any items they do not need, to think about donating.
I know that people probably have 100 different things going on right now in their own lives, but as a student this seems like a great chance for us to give something back in such a simple and easy way that does not involve making a huge financial donation of some sort.
Blend Coffee Lounge, an amazing and unique café situated in the heart of Dundee central, has partnered with Dundee Foodbank this Christmas season and are currently collecting donations of 12 specific things that the food bank is in shortage of right now. You can see the list of items on their Facebook page. They have a basket in store where donations can be dropped off.
Dundee Foodbank has been providing local help and support for families and individuals since 2012, doing so through various donations, both big and small, from people, shops, cafes, and communities. It is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks (supported by The Trussell Trust) that aim to try and tackle poverty on a local level as they believe no individual and family should live life with the fear of going without food. You can find out more about how to donate directly to the charity on their website.
I know that Dundee Foodbank and Blend Coffee Lounge would hugely appreciate any small or big donation that students can make during this difficult time. Whether you decide to donate items you will not need or use, or decide to pick up some extra things on your food shop, I hope many of you reading this will join us in taking part in the ‘Clear Out to Help Out’.