Grants available to help set up uniform banks in East Suffolk
It's to help families in need during the cost of living crisis
Community groups in East Suffolk are being offered grants of up to £3,000 to set up new uniform banks for local school kids.
The cash is set to come from East Suffolk Council as part of efforts to help families in need during the cost of living crisis.
Once operational, donations of new or pre-loved good-quality uniform, sportswear and school equipment can be made to the banks, which will then be made available to families who may be struggling to afford uniform.
Uniform banks which have previously been funded through the East Suffolk Uniform Bank grant scheme are now operational at Bloodmoor Community Centre in Carlton Colville, Project40Seven at Creative Leiston and St Luke’s Church in Beccles.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism said: “On average, school uniform costs families over £300 per year, and this can be higher if a school requires the use of a particular supplier, or the uniform contains branded items.
"Providing uniform, sports kit and other school equipment can be a struggle for many families, particularly those in rural areas. Uniform banks can help ease this pressure by providing good quality uniform to those in need and also helps to reduce clothing waste.”