A charity that has helped thousands of refugees is opening a new shop in Chester following a surge of public support.
The Flint-based charity Share will open the shop in the former Antonina’s ice cream parlour on Northgate Street on Saturday, December 12.
The shop will not only sell items to and from the public, but will also offer the chance for homeless people to get off the streets and behind the till as part of a rehabilitation project.
Supporters of the charity took part in a sponsored walk from Flint to Chester on Sunday, December 6, to celebrate the opening of the shop.
Founder of Share Adam Dandy said the shop will offer clothes, gifts, gadgets, toys and coffee as well as ‘suspended coffee’ – where shoppers can buy a hot drink for a homeless person or someone struggling financially.
Support
Adam said: “We hope to give them support to overcome problems, but also employ them in the shop so they can earn a living or find them other employment.”
Businessman Adam, who owns Dandy’s Topsoil in Sealand, told of meeting a homeless man who had been living on the streets for seven months after his relationship broke down.
He said: “This guy had everything a year ago – a house, a job and a car – but lost everything. He cannot get accommodation and has no option but to sleep rough. These are the sort of people we want to help.”
It is also hoped the public will donate clothes and sleeping bags which Share, along with other agencies, can distribute to those most in need on the streets.
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Co-founder of Share Louse Edwards said: “The response we have received from our local communities since setting up Share a while back in October has been incredible. What started out as a relatively small-scale project has grown beyond all expectation.’
“We would like to say a huge thank you to each and every person that has supported Share and we welcome any offers of help in the setting up of our new charity shop in Chester.”
How you can help
Share are looking for volunteers to help clean, tidy, and paint the shop - for more details visit their Share Shop Chester page on Facebook or telephone 07725035627 or email adam@shareaid.co.uk.
