A Salford charity is appealing for donations as members of the community struggle to find extra layers this upcoming winter.

The project ‘Wrap up Salford’ is run by Worsley Rotary, along with Irlam and Manchester Rotary Clubs. The project aims to collect donations of warm winter coats for all ages and deliver them to those who are struggling, particularly families struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Peter Irwin, Rotary trustee, said: “The demand has remained constant.”

“There has been a slight fall off in the number of coats this year, perhaps people have run out of supplies or due to the increase in prices.”

Wrap Up, which first started in 2021, encourages people who have coats in a good condition that they no longer want to donate them to those struggling to afford warm clothing.

Since the beginning of the scheme they have collected and donated 5,000 coats, with 200 coats collected so far this year in their first week.

Wrap Up Salford sorting centre. Image credit: Maisy Hall
Volunteer June Mottram sorting the coats

Warren Mottram, volunteer and member of the Rotary club, said: “We take boxes out to different locations including churches and schools.

“We pick them up, bring them here and sort them into categories and check that they are of good quality.”

This year, charities such as Barnabus, Coffee4Craig, and Lifeshare as well as many others will receive the donated coats.

June Mottram, volunteer and wife of Warren Mottram, added: “Somebody in need could just walk in as well, we had a woman last year in tears after collecting a bag of coats she needed.”

Barbara Keeley, MP for Worsley and Eccles South has also shown interest in the scheme.

Peter said: “She is arranging doing an official opening at the start of November.”

Wrap Up’s sorting centre operates from a unit in The Ellesmere Centre in Walkden after the owners, The Derwent Group offered them the space for free. They have also had carpets donated for the centre from nearby retailer Winders Carpets.

Wrap Up Salford will be collecting coats until October 27. More information can be found on their website. People are also encouraged to offer their time by volunteering and can get in touch through Peter_Irwin@btinternet.com

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