South Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Service given Co-op donation
Shoppers have supported a charity helping families in South Holland impacted by domestic abuse by raising cash while buying household items.
South Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Service (SoLDAS), provided by Boston Women's Aid, is among a number of charities across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, East and North Yorkshire getting a share of nearly £100,000 from Lincolnshire Co-op's Community Champions scheme.
Nearly £3,000 has been donated to SoLDAS Boston Women's Aid by the scene where Co-op makes a donation to good causes when a member shops with its dividend card.
Fundraising by Co-op staff and proceeds from a 10pm carrier bag charge between July and September this year has also made up the total amount raised.
SoLDAS operations manager Sarah Smith said: "SoLDAS Boston Women's Aid would like to thank Lincolnshire Co-op - and its customers - for the award of almost £3,000 towards our work, supporting victims of domestic abuse and their families.
"Most victims of domestic abuse arrive at our refuge with nothing, other than the clothes they are wearing and no access to any money because the perpetrator has all financial control.
"This award will help to provide the essentials for families for their first few weeks in refuge, from school uniform to food, clothes and shoes, and gift vouchers for shopping.
"Since COVID-19 struck we have seen a real drop-off in donations, but this award means families in crisis, often deeply traumatised, who have fled to a place of safety, can have the dignity of being able to purchase the essentials they need, whilst waiting the six weeks or so for their benefits claim to be processed.
"The generosity of the people of Lincolnshire, and the support of Lincolnshire Co-op, makes such a difference to these families' future lives."
It is the second funding boost for SoLDAS this year after it received £12,000 from Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones in June.
Speaking in June when the award was announced, Sarah said: "Boston Women’s Aid delivers SoLDAS, mainly across South Holland and Boston Borough, though some of our projects also cover Skegness and one covers the whole of Lincolnshire.
"The charity’s objective is to provide advice, support and temporary accommodation for victims of domestic abuse and their children.
"We have made huge changes to our working practices but the team has been absolutely amazing, with virtual support in place for all the victims we work with.
"We are thrilled with the efforts colleagues put in during fundraising, particularly during these difficult times.
"We are so thankful to our members and the general public for their generosity in helping raise such a fantastic total.
"These charities provide support and services that are vital for so many people and we hope the total raised will make a big difference to these causes and the communities they support."
