Specsavers Macclesfield has helped to raise more than £9000 nationwide to support those struggling in their local communities this Christmas, and a Macclesfield cause has been one to benefit.

With an increasing number of families needing support during this festive season due to the cost of living crisis, more than 30 Specsavers businesses across the region have joined together to support the initiative, raising the impressive total following two-weeks of fundraising.  

And Macclesfield's Silklife Foodbank has benefited from the optician donating £350.

The donation comes as foodbanks in the region are anticipating that this winter will be the hardest yet for the growing number of people they support. 

Angharad Butler from Specsavers in Macclesfield, says: 'We know what an incredibly difficult time it's been for our local communities and the local economy as the cost of living crisis takes hold. 

"We see people from our nearby communities every day in our stores and hear their stories – it can be incredibly upsetting, so we felt very strongly about doing our bit to support.'  

Angharad continues: 'The response from fellow stores across the region has been incredible and we have all been completely overwhelmed to learn how much has been raised. 

"Funds raised will mean much needed grocery supplies can be bought to give directly to families in need in our communities, helping them to get through the festivities and school holidays with plenty to eat."

The donations are now being sent directly to independent foodbanks or through The Trussell Trust, which manages many of the community foodbanks across the region, so Specsavers stores can support the communities closest to them. 

Each store made an individual commitment to donate funds to a foodbank in their neighbourhood, to ensure they are directly supporting residents and families close by. The donations will make a considerable impact to those requiring support.  

Research by the Trussell Trust, published in November, revealed that for the first time, the need for emergency food is outstripping donations, with the cost of living crisis resulting in a drastic increase in the number of foodbank users. As well as a change to the profile of the typical UK foodbank user, with one in five people, referred to foodbanks in the Trussell Trust's network, from working households¹.

As a result of the Specsavers' donations, it is hoped that foodbanks will be able to better meet the increasing demand and offer more support and wrap-around services to those in need. 

Silklife Foodbank is located on George Street. Whereas Specsavers Macclesfield is located inside The Grosvenor Centre, opposite Macclesfield Indoor Market.

Earlier in the year, the opticians announced a partnership with Macclesfield FC and also a grassroots football side in Tytherington.

To find out more information, request an appointment or browse the online store, please visit this link.

You can donate to Silklife Foodbank on this link.

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