Kibble and partner, St Mirren FC alongside Scottish Leather Group (SLG) set-up a Warm Bank calling for donations of warm clothing and generously received enough winter items to fill St Mirren’s SMISA Stadium South Stand.
St Mirren fans and locals were encouraged to donate jackets, hats, scarves, gloves, hats, boots and blankets, which would be distributed to those in need of support as the country faces an increased cost of living.
Kibble, St Mirren and SLG sorted through the donations collected and arranged for distribution. The sorting volunteers included young people from Kibble who choose to go along and help organise the various items of clothing.
One young person of Kibble shared, “I felt really helpful arranging the kids clothing. I hope someone is pleased with their new coat and it makes them smile.
“I am now a St Mirren fan as it was fun being in the stadium with lots of us working together to help others.”
As well as distributing the clothing to families in the community, local foodbanks and charities, an open day at the stadium was held. Those interested were invited free of charge to select clothing and enjoy a soup and a roll. The food was made by students from Kibble’s Skills Academy and the cost of ingredients were covered by SLG.
Ourselves, St Mirren and SLG pulled together our resources to create a heart-warming initiative and the people of Renfrewshire responded tremendously with generous donations, bringing community spirit to life.
Jim Gillespie, chief executive of Kibble, said: “There is no doubt that we are facing one of the toughest winters to date and it is crucial that organisations support their local communities as much as they possibly can.
“Our young people are keen to help others and be involved in such a worthwhile project supporting their local community. We are thrilled to be working with our partners at St Mirren Football Club, in addition to our neighbour Scottish Leather Group, as we come together to provide support in this way.”