University of York Retail Team surpasses £17,000 in donations to local charities

The University of York’s on-campus retail team has now donated more than £17,000 to charities across York, reinforcing the University’s commitment to supporting its local community.
Funds have been raised through the Making a Difference Locally (MADL) scheme, a charity initiative funded by Co-op Wholesale that enables independent retailers to give back to causes in their area. Donations are generated through the sale of selected in-store products, including all Co-op and Heritage own-label products.
Over the past four months alone, teams at Market Square Store and Nisa Kimberlow have raised and distributed just over £2,000 to a range of York-based organisations. Benefi ciaries include The Hygiene Bank, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School and Nursery, MySight York, Snappy Trust, IDAS, and Treasure Chest Breastfeeding Group York.
Jamie Harrison, Head of Catering, Retail and Hospitality at the University of York, said: “We are delighted to continue to support our local charities through our Making a Difference Locally scheme. It is always humbling to learn about the impact of these charities have on the local communities, and really highlights the unsung hero's, who make it their mission to do something that really helps others.
As our University continues to pride itself on existing for the public good, we look forward to continuing to support to those who really make a positive difference in local community.”
Local organisations have already begun putting the funds to use, supporting vital services across the city.
A spokesperson from The Hygiene Bank York said: “The Hygiene Bank York is a volunteer-led project tackling hygiene poverty in the city. We collect essential items like soap, shampoo, toothpaste and cleaning products through donations from individuals and businesses. These are distributed to food banks, charities and people who cannot afford basic necessities. We’re incredibly grateful for today’s donation and thank everyone involved. It will make a real difference locally, helping us fi ll our SOS bags - each containing fi ve essential items available to anyone in need.”
Emma Poole, Fundraiser at IDAS, added: “We're so grateful to the team at Nisa for their generous donation. We'll use these funds to engage children and young people, to understand their experiences of domestic abuse and our services, and improve the way we work.”
Will Evans, Fundraiser at MySight York, said: “Empowering people to live well with sight loss is MySight York’s mission, and our social and sporting activities are essential to this. Last year they benefi ted more than 1,500 people in York; fostering community, confi dence, and quality of life. Nisa’s gift will allow us to invest in equipment and the spaces in which our activities take place, providing greater benefi t to more people living with visual impairment. We are immensely grateful for this generous support – thank you!”
Michelle Wallis, Treasure Chest Trustee, said:
“Treasure Chest aims to make sure parents feel supported and listened to in their breastfeeding journey in the York area. We meet families across the city, offering a friendly space to share experiences, ask questions, and build confi dence. From antenatal workshops, visiting the postnatal ward at York hospital to our weekly groups. Nisa’s donation will help us invest in our running costs, ensuring we can provide helpful resources for parents when and where they need them most. It really makes a difference to the families who come through our doors. We’re so grateful for the support – thank you.”
This milestone highlights the continued impact of everyday purchases made by students, staff and visitors, helping to fund meaningful change within the York community.

My Sight York