Gateshead Every Child Warm project supports with high uniform costs

A Gateshead Salvation Army project gave out school uniform, coats and shoes to 245 children in time for the new school term. 

Almost 122 families came through the doors for the annual Every Child Warm project, which is held over two days in August, to help families struggling with the high cost of uniform, outerwear and shoes. 

Children, their parents and carers were invited in to select items themselves, while activities and food were also on offer, ensuring each child had a memorable day. Every Child Warm takes referrals from local schools, food banks, and within The Salvation Army church community. 

The project is supported by The Salvation Army’s trading arm SATCoL, Gateshead Council, Tesco, Kittiwake Trust, and members of the church who donate items all year round. 

Ann Humes, who leads the project, said: “Across the two days we gave items to 245 children from 122 families. Families are telling us how much this helps them because the cost of uniforms is so high, especially if you have more than one child. 

“What’s unique about this project is the focus on shoes and coats as these are the most expensive items to buy. This ensures kids are not turning up to school cold and wet, which is disruptive to their learning, but also that they have good quality clothes to boost their self-esteem and ability to make friends. 

“We try to make Every Child Warm an experience for them. They get a personal shopper when they arrive, they can try clothes on and are made to feel special. We also have activities, crafts and food throughout the church. The atmosphere is one of laughter and fun. 

“This year, we’ve also given them books thanks to a donation from the Kittiwake Trust. It's a joy to see the children going home with something else to do during the holidays while promoting the library theme this year, which is summer reading.” 

With the church and community centre in Sunderland Road in one of the most deprived council wards in the UK, the support is vital for families that are struggling to make ends meet. 

Captain Tony Kakande, who leads Gateshead Salvation Army, said the project has an impact beyond the two days. 

He said: “It’s so well supported by the community and our church members, who provide many of the items or give up their time to ensure it runs like clockwork. They do this because they know they’re supporting people in the community. 

“People know they're welcome, and they told us they’ve been very moved by the support they’ve received. Many have come back to join us at other events and at church, becoming part of the Gateshead Salvation Army family. 

“We want people to know that we are here for them. People feel embarrassed about asking for help, but we’d rather that they reach out to places like The Salvation Army rather than get into debt, which is a situation many people find themselves in when their incomes don’t match the cost of living.” 

Thanks to donations by the congregation and members of the church’s senior group, children also got a brand new polo or white shirt, while one church member donated 100 rucksacks in appreciation of the support she had previously received from The Salvation Army when she was in need. 

Gateshead Council provided activities, and guests also got to take home a fruit bag and toiletries, while Tesco helped to reimburse bus fares for families, breaking down barriers to accessing the project. 

The Salvation Army’s trading arm SATCoL provided hundreds of warm coats and black school shoes. 

Aaron Johnson, Director of Clothing Collection Division at Salvation Army Trading Company, said: “We’re proud to have supported Every Child Warm. Thanks to the generosity of people who donate to our clothing banks, and the dedication of our processing centre team who carefully identify and set aside quality items for projects like this, we can help ensure children start the school year feeling warm, confident and ready to learn. 

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, making it possible to support local families when they need it most.” 

Gateshead Salvation Army runs a number of activities and support services for the community as well as Sunday worship.