JCI Belfast staff team up for donation drive mid-pandemic

We got a donation recently from JCI Belfast of clothes and blankets, food, hygiene products, and tents and camping gear.

We asked them what it took to organise a collection in these times.

Organiser Michael Lynch explained: “We wanted to do something to have an impact in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. We could see so many local groups doing their part, but one of our members had been reading Care4Calais posts, and that seemed like an unmet need, so we thought that was something we could do and make a difference in the present climate.

“The second reason was that it’s quite a good time to ask for donations, as most people are at home, wanting to do something, wanting to spring clean. We thought the items on the list we compiled were things people might have lying around, so there was no better time to ask.

“Thirdly, we had a group of people who were willing and able to do what was needed, and wanted to contribute. A lot of people at this time are willing to play their part and contribute where they can.”

Michael added: “Even the small efforts you can make – trawling through your wardrobe, going to pick up a bag of clothes, knocking on doors, writing emails – can help to make a difference. It’s really rewarding and fills you with a great sense of pride to see the end result.”

Thank you to all at JCI Belfast Local Chamber.

If you want to organise to collect and donate goods, you can find some suggestions by clicking here.