Telford College has donated a large collection of surplus marketing materials to Telford Women’s Refuge, supporting women and children who arrive at the service with very few personal belongings.
The items – including around 300 T-shirts, plus pens and tote bags – will be used to help families settle in, rebuild confidence and access everyday essentials during an extremely challenging time in their lives.
Telford Women’s Refuge, whose location is completely confidential, is funded by Telford & Wrekin Council and offers a safe place where any woman in an abusive relationship can live in a caring and supportive environment, free from fear, with or without children.
The donation forms part of the college’s wider commitment to community support and social responsibility.
Anna Kutuzova, the college’s marketing and external relations administrator, said the materials, produced for past campaigns and events, could now make a far greater impact in the hands of local families who need them most.
“We wanted to find a locally-based cause which would really benefit from these materials,” she said.
“Domestic violence can happen to anyone, and we hope that these items will help to provide a degree of comfort, dignity and a sense of normality for women and children as they seek to rebuild their lives.”
Students from Telford College’s Willow Tree Centre helped to wash, prepare and pack the supplies, which were handed over to Claire Bowater, senior domestic abuse support officer at Telford & Wrekin Council.
Councillor Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for highways, housing and enforcement, said: “We are extremely grateful for these kind donations which provide a huge boost for our Telford Women’s Refuge.
“Items make a difference to women and children who use the refuge and often have next to nothing when they arrive. We continue to support women across our borough who live in fear and need a safe place to stay.”
Anyone who needs a place of safety is urged to call Telford & Wrekin Council’s Housing Options team on 01952 381925 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
