"We felt it was important to try to help people who are not fortunate enough to have their own home or who have found themselves in a difficult position, especially in the run up to Christmas."
Rebecca Kane, co-founder of Silver Mushroom
AN East Lancashire interiors company turned the Black Friday sales rush on its head to help out two homeless charities.
Silver Mushroom, a Blackburn firm which sells sustainably-sourced kitchen and homeware via its online marketplace, instead held a ‘Silver Sunday’ event two days after the bargain-grabbing event.
They donated two per cent of their weekend takings to Coffee4Craig, a Manchester-based charity which provides an out-of-hours drop-in service for those living on the streets.
Silver Mushroom also donated a pallet of items including crockery, mugs, cutlery, mixing bowls and other kitchen essentials to Mustard Tree, which helps people secure better accommodation and economic well being.
Rebecca Kane, founder of Silver Mushroom, said: “It was an idea we came up with when we were discussing Black Friday, and how it has become a mad rush to grab as many bargains as possible.
“While our loyal customers are keen on getting value for money, they are also interested in giving something back – often by choosing sustainable products for their own homes.
“We felt it was important to try to help people who are not fortunate enough to have their own home, or who have found themselves in a difficult position, especially in the run up to Christmas.
“These two charities do fantastic work in providing essential services for homeless people, whether that be a hot shower and a hot meal or advice and help in getting themselves into more permanent accommodation – complete with everything they need to get them back on their feet.”
Mustard Tree has hubs in Ancoats, Eccles and Little Hulton which help to provide low cost food, furniture, household basics and clothing.
The organisation also runs a volunteer programme, recycling and flat clearance businesses, plus employment guidance.
A spokesman said: “We’re seeing more and more people on low or no income relying on us for essential support.
"Donations from partners like Silver Mushroom means we can provide items for people struggling to make ends meet – helping them to make their house a home."
Coffee4Craig – set up in 2013 – offers hot meals, showers and medical support to Manchester’s homeless community.
Rebecca said: “This has been a very tough year for everyone due to the coronavirus pandemic, but especially for those who are without the things we often take for granted – a roof over our heads, hot food and basic amenities such as a bathroom and heating.
“Hopefully out of the challenges of 2020 comes a more caring attitude, as people realise what’s truly important – people.”
