Salford Lads and Girls Club have put out an appeal to the public to invest in their heritage-green winter hats to help fund the upkeep of their iconic venue.
After a near-closure in 2024, the club has been proactive in finding creative methods of fundraising to keep its doors open.
100% of profits made from each item in their merchandise store goes back into funding the facility, allowing them to keep their kitchen open and sports clubs running.
Gill Herring, 50, a loyal volunteer to the club, said: “Children can come in here from the age of 6 and do different activities where they’re safe, cared for and not on the streets.
“Every sale of anything of our merchandise goes to help fund our youth club, all our youth provisions, because we do not charge the kids.”
The club has around 200 young people regularly using their space, ranging from taking part in sports sessions or craft clubs, to simply looking for a warm space to study during the colder months.
Funding is crucial to keep the clubs’ doors open to everyone.
Jaxson Brannagan, 14, has been attending the club for 3 years, volunteering for 2 years. When asked how the club has helped him, Jaxson said, “It allows me to do stuff, to do activities, talk to new people, everything.
“Because I want to become a youth worker, and volunteering is helping me to become one.”
Founded in 1903, Salford Lads and Girls Club is a non-profit organisation, with a long-standing philosophy: ‘To brighten young lives and make good citizens.’
Volunteers hope to develop the club further by using funds from the hat appeal, so they can help as many young lives as possible.
“Have a look online. Have a look at our shop.” said Gill. “I think we need to remember what we’re here for and not stray too far from that.”
Visit Salford Lads and Girls Club merchandise store here.
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