Swansea representatives of the Help for Heroes charity have launched a major month-long charity event at a top city store.
Debenhams, in the busy Quadrant Shopping Centre, threw open its floorspace to the charity which supports wounded servicemen and their families.
The appeal launched on St David’s Day with fundraising led by Help for Heroes volunteers led by Pippa Sanders and will last throughout March.
Pippa, from Sketty, volunteered for Help for Heroes last year and she said: “My son, Joshua, joined up and is with the Royal Army Medical Corps and has just finished training. That’s what persuaded me to get involved.”
Joshua, 23, is now waiting for his first posting and his mum added: “It’s time for us to do our bit. They’re doing their bit for us out there or wherever they are and we should do something for them.
“We’ve got the Army Cadets helping us out and we’ve got wrist bands to give out and a selection of broaches and key-rings. It all helps.”
Their efforts are being replicated nationally with Debenhams aiming to raise a minimum of £75,000 nationally.
The Swansea store will also be supporting Help for Heroes with a range of limited edition merchandise. Exclusive sweatshirts and t-shirts for men by Red Herring will be available in store and online, ranging from £20-£35, with all profits being donated to the charity.
James Loxdale, store manager of Debenhams Swansea says: “We’re delighted to be supporting Help for Heroes. We kicked off with a fundraising weekend in store with the support of local Help for Heroes volunteers selling merchandise and collecting donations.”
Help for Heroes’ mission is to deliver a lasting national network of support for wounded servicemen and their families. The charity inspires and enables those who have made sacrifices on the countries behalf to achieve their full potential.
Mike Jewitt, Wales Co-ordinator for Help for Heroes, said: “Help for Heroes is hugely grateful to Debenhams for the amazing support it is giving us.
“What really makes the contribution stand out is the range of support provided; from allowing us to run a national collection weekend at stores, to developing a range of clothing in partnership with H4H.
“Servicemen and women who are injured today will still need our support tomorrow and in the days that follow, for the rest of their lives. They are still battling and we won’t let them battle alone.”
