The Bank of Things which opened in early 2022 has proved to be a vital source of support for many young people living in hardship in Lewisham. But the innovative services hub is feeling the squeeze.
The cost of living crisis which has seen rents, food and energy costs rise dramatically has hit the charity hard, reducing donations just as demand has increased as students return to school, says Hannah Monteith, the bank coordinator.
“We just don’t have enough stuff this year. Donations have dried up,” she adds.
Created by the Lewisham Young Mayors project and local charity Lewisham Local, the Bank of Things aims to fight poverty and the lack of resources available to young people in the borough.
Based on the principles of a food bank, the bank supplies everyday necessities free – items such as art equipment, stationery, sanitary products, shampoo, soap and toothpaste and many others.
Money is tight, says Hannah who runs the charity with the help of young volunteers. “We try to offer help with lots of things – including school uniforms and scientific calculators. We are very short of scientific calculators at the moment.”
“We are always looking for donations of new and unopened products including: deodorant, facewash, shampoo, conditioner, pads and tampons, toothpaste, moisturisers, sun cream, scientific calculators, A4 lined refill pads, highlighters, green, black and red biros, maths sets, 30 cm rulers, clear plastic pencil cases, post it notes, revision cards and folders.
“And if you have any used and unwanted revision guides for all GCSE and A level subjects please do drop them in.”
Set up in Unit 19 in Lewisham Shopping Centre, the bank also provides access to information about education, employment and careers. The unit is open every Wednesday and Friday 3.00-5.00pm.
Donations can be dropped off between 10am and 5pm on Monday through to Friday using the donation bins available in Unit 19 at Lewisham Shopping Centre or you can use the registry at Common Good to select items and they will get sent to us.
https://linktr.ee/bankofthingslewisham