Eat Well MCR – the nonprofit which has provided nearly 130,000 free meals to those in food poverty across the Manchester – have launched their Christmas Wellness Box Appeal.
Teaming up with Good Thing Coffee Co, The Old Abbey Taphouse, Venture Arts, and Meanwhile Creative, they’re bringing practical support and care to young people in Manchester stepping out of the care system and into independence.
They’re asking people across the region to donate cosy clothing, self-care products, healthy snacks and other thoughtful items to bring comfort and joy during what can be a challenging time of year.
They’ve outlined some of the ways you can get involved:
- Donate items: Warm socks, journals, skincare products, or healthy treats.
- Volunteer your time: Help us pack and deliver the boxes.
- Spread the word: Share this appeal with friends, family, or colleagues who’d like to help.
Drop-off points are open throughout November at:
- Good Thing Coffee Co, Pollard Yard, Pollard Street East, Manchester, M40 7QX
- The Old Abbey Taphouse, Guildhall Close, Manchester M15 6SY
The boxes will be distributed in mid-December, offering a moment of respite and care to those who need it most. The types of products they’re looking to be donated include:
- New unworn cosy clothing: Socks, hoodies, scarves, or beanies
- Self-care products: Bath bombs, moisturisers, mindfulness journals
- Healthy snacks: Trail mix, herbal teas, chocolate
- Hygiene essentials: Toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo
- Stationery and wellness tools: Colouring books, stationary, journals.
Eat Well MCR was founded by top chef Mary-Ellen McTague, alongside Gemma Saunders and Kathleen O’Connor, in the wake of the pandemic.
They provide over 2,500 meals monthly to families experiencing homelessness, women taking refuge in sheltered accommodation, parents of children staying in hospital, food banks and schools supporting families affected by food poverty.
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