Volunteers at a community shop dedicated to providing essential goods to families facing hardship are inviting the public to visit and make use of its services.
The Honesty Jar, based at Grassroots Garden Centre in Henstridge, Somerset, offers a range of items—including clothing, school uniforms, books, shoes, toys, and kitchenware—either free of charge or at affordable prices.
Founder Sam Flounders stated that her committed team of 40 volunteers supports around 1,000 individuals each month. The initiative is designed to ease financial challenges while providing “a dignified way for people to access what they need,” according to Ms Flounders.
“Anyone is welcome to take what they need from our selection; we simply ask for a voluntary contribution in the honesty jar,” she explained.
The venue promotes sustainability by encouraging the public to donate unwanted items in good condition.
“We receive two metric tonnes (2,000 kg) of donated goods weekly and our goal is to rehome these items instead of seeing them end up in landfill,” Ms Flounders said.
This not-for-profit organisation is committed to assisting those experiencing challenging situations, including new parents, job seekers, and young people starting independent lives.
Ms Flounders added: “We kindly ask that donations are limited to reusable items that can be taken home and used immediately; we are unable to accept broken items.”
Lisamarie Canning from the Honesty Jar highlighted the importance of ongoing community support. “Without continued help through fundraising, donations, and volunteering, we would not be able to maintain the vital support we provide,” she said.
“The unwavering support from the community is what keeps the Honesty Jar thriving,” Canning added.
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