Donation hub offering school supplies and toiletries to open in Lewisham

A centre where young people from low income households can take home school equipment and other essentials will open in Lewisham at the end of the month.

The Bank of Things, located in Lewisham shopping centre, was devised and funded by the Young Mayor’s budget and was announced at Mayor and Cabinet on January 12.

Based on the principles of a food bank, young people will be able to visit the donation hub and take home items from their menu.

The council hopes that access to items such as stationery and art equipment for free will help young people with their education and their role in society.

The Young Mayor and Young Advisors have consulted with schools and youth clubs on the project, and spent time learning from Lewisham Food Bank and Lewisham Local to understand the logistics involved in running donation hubs.

Rosanna Campbell, Young Mayor of Lewisham, said: “I’m excited to be taking forward the Bank of Things with the Young Advisors.

“I know lots of people have been working on developing the unit in the shopping centre.

“It will be able to support young people in so many ways as well as providing opportunities for them to try new things and get involved.”

The space at Lewisham shopping centre has been provided free of charge and will be staffed by Lewisham Local employees and volunteers, with local businesses donating items.

Young people across the borough will also be volunteering at the Bank of Things to encourage others to access the resource.

The Bank of Things will also be an opportunity for young people to access advice and information about education, training, employment and careers, with Baseline and Youth Hub services being available in the same space.

Cllr Chris Barnham, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and School Performance, said: “Food banks have proven to be a vital resource for families that need it, but there are certain items a young person needs in order to succeed in school and life that may not be available.

“The Bank of Things will allow young people to access essential items and services that will help them to become independent citizens and support them on their journey to adulthood.

“I am proud of the way the Young Mayor and Young Advisors have driven this community project forward.”