SHELTER Scotland is expanding its chain of shops with a new location in Broughty Ferry – a first for the housing and homelessness charity.
The charity, which already has a successful shop in Dundee, is adding to its chain today (13th April) with a new shop on Brook Street. Shelter Scotland says it’s relying on the kindness and generosity of local people to raise vital funds.
According to the charity, which runs a number of local projects, including a support service for young runaways and advice and advocacy for households facing money and debt problems, it received over 20,000 calls to its free national helpline last year from families and individuals living in bad housing or at risk of homelessness.
Shelter Scotland says its chain of 44 shops across Scotland go a long way in funding local and national support projects.
Says a spokesperson: “Last year, 1,252 households were assessed as homeless in Dundee, while 5,846 families are currently on the waiting list for a home.”
Liz McIlrath, manager of the new Dundee shop, said:
“We are overwhelmed by the long-standing support we have received from local people over the years and hope they will welcome the new shop.
“As we prepare to open our doors stock remains one of the most important issues we’re facing, as well as the need for dedicated volunteers.
“It costs just £10 for one of our expert advisors to help a family or individual at risk of losing their home – we can raise that money by selling an unwanted jumper or pair shoes. £45 is enough to train an advisor to protect children at risk, which could be raised from selling an unwanted winter coat that’s taking up space in someone’s wardrobe.
“Of course, our shops would not survive without hard working volunteers who give up their spare time to help us raise money so we can work towards ending Scotland’s housing crisis for good. If you think you’ve got what it takes, pop into the shop and speak to us about volunteering opportunities.”
Shelter Scotland shops are famed for their quality of goods and regular sales of top brand names including Prada, Dior and Vivienne Westwood.
Liz McIlrath added:
“We hope that the people of Broughty Ferry and further afield will continue to support Shelter Scotland, because without their help and generosity our fight to end bad housing and homelessness would be so much harder.”
Shelter Scotland, 215 Brook Street, Broughty Ferry, DD5 2AG
Ends/
Notes to Editors:
1. Shelter Scotland helps over half a million people a year struggling with bad housing or homelessness – and we campaign to prevent it in the first place. We’re here so no-one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own. For advice and support visit www.shelterscotland.org or call 0808 800 4444.
2. Spokespeople are available for interview – call the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line is available for broadcast interviews.
3. Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/shelterscotland Twitter – http://twitter.com/shelterscotland
Shelter Scotland believes everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Shelter Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Shelter Scotland
Email: mediascotland@shelter.org.uk
Website: http://www.shelterscotland.org
