Whole Foods Market to raise funds for Young and Homeless Helpline in Centrepoint appeal boost
Retailers across London will be bidding to rake in the cash on Black Friday tomorrow but Whole Foods Market has a different take on the pre-Christmas sales jamboree - boosting the Standard’s Centrepoint appeal.
On Give Back Friday, the supermarket chain will donate five per cent of tomorrow’s gross sales from its seven stores in the capital to our campaign to help the young homeless.
In addition, customers will be able to donate to Centrepoint at the tills throughout the next two months.
Diego Hvozda, store team leader at Whole Foods Market Piccadilly, said: “We are in awe of the constant energy from the Centrepoint team and their commitment to helping young adults get back on their feet.
“All our London stores are rallying behind our Christmas appeal, but we at Piccadilly have a special connection as we share a neighbourhood with many Centrepoint services.
"At this time of year there is a lot of joy and happiness, but we must not forget that this can be one of the most lonely times for those who are homeless.”
It is the second year in a row the homelessness charity has teamed up with Whole Foods. Last year they raised £31,946.
Nick Connolly, head of corporate development at Centrepoint, said: “We are delighted to have the continued support of Whole Foods for their Christmas campaign this year.
“With the number of young people sleeping rough in London more than doubling in recent years, this support is truly invaluable.
"This winter alone, almost 25,000 young people will be at risk, making dangerous choices just to survive.”
Benjamin Woodgate, marketing coordinator at Whole Foods Market, added: “We are proud and delighted to be partnering with Centrepoint for the second year running.
“We have a great appreciation for the efforts of the Centrepoint team, especially during the Christmas period and winter months.”
More than 150,000 young people approach the authorities every year because they are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Nearly three quarters of those who approach Centrepoint have experienced abuse of some kind.
The Evening Standard's Homeless Helpline appeal is raising money for the Centrepoint Helpline, a brand new support service that will save young people from ending up on the streets.
To donate please visit our Just Giving page.
