Gentoo donates hundreds of uniforms and school items to disadvantaged families
Gentoo has supported 480 children returning to schools across Sunderland with donations of school uniforms and essential items, helping ease financial pressure on families.
The initiative provided children with a range of additional items including shoes and a backpack containing school essentials such as notebooks, pens and water bottles.
Referrals were made by Gentoo staff, ensuring support reached families most in need. Staff also volunteered their time to pack and distribute the uniform bags, helping the initiative run smoothly and maximising support available to customers.
One parent said: “With having three children to buy uniforms for, it took a huge weight off my shoulders. I didn't feel so stressed this time and it has saved me from getting into debt.”
Chris Roberts, director of customer at Gentoo, added: “This initiative was about more than providing uniforms and school supplies. It was about helping children feel confident, comfortable and ready to learn from day one, while easing some of the financial burden on parents and carers.”