Uniform bank organisers are overwhelmed

The school uniform bank being set up at the EU Congregational Church

The uniform bank takes place on Monday-Friday (August 1-5) from 10am-3.30pm and Saturday, August 6, from 10am-2pm.

The idea was first thought up by Mossend Primary PTA, but it was felt holding it in neutral territory with people they didn’t know would make it more likely that parents would go along so the church volunteered it’s services.

It has worked in partnership with Mossend, Holy Family, St Gerard’s, Noble Primary Sacred Heart and Lawmuir Primaries, as well as Cardinal Newman High School and Bellshill Academy to ensure there is a large selection of pre-loved and out grown nursery and school uniforms available to all parents and carers free.

Interest hasn’t just come from Bellshill as church secretary Elaine Gatenby said: “When we first made the appeal for donations we really weren’t sure what sort of reaction we would get, but it’s fair to say we have been a little overwhelmed, it’s just been amazing.

“It hasn’t just been from Bellshill, we have full uniforms for every school in the town, but we have also had donations of shirts and trousers from Viewpark.

“We’ve also had interest from people in Holytown and New Stevenston, we won’t have blazers for those schools, but everyone is welcome as many of the trousers and shirts are practically brand new.

“We hope people aren’t afraid to pop in for a cuppa and a chat while they pick up the clothing and maybe other people will be inspired to take on the idea to run in their town in future years.”

If you require any other information call Elaine on 0772 917 2008 or Margaret on 01698 748804.