Co-op Wholesale’s registered charity, Making a Difference Locally (MADL), has celebrated raising a total of £20m for local charities, community groups and good causes across the UK.
Since launching in 2008, MADL has worked with Co-op Wholesale partner stores across the UK to raise funds for retailers’ chosen local charities or community initiatives, with over 25,000 donations.
Thanks to the donations, more than 11,000 community groups, projects and small charities have been supported across a wide range of projects, including those focused on:
- Mental wellbeing
- LGBTQ+ and inclusion
- Sport and social activities
- Strengthened communities
- Food poverty
- Health and social care
Funds are raised from sales of Co-op own-brand products, as well as in-store initiatives like collection tins and clothing banks, with a percentage going into a virtual fund for retailers to donate. Stores are then able to donate these funds to a local charity or good cause of their choice within a 10-mile radius, ensuring money raised will benefit the local community.
Earlier this year, independent retailer Mike Sohal from Nisa Dallam donated £1,500 from its MADL fund to three local groups doing outstanding work in the local area. Boulting Avenue Family Hub, Ace Badminton and Winnington Park Rugby Club each received £500.
NP Group, which comprises a chain of Nisa outlets in the North West, has also donated to numerous local causes through MADL, including the Darwen Food Larder, Darwen Rotary Club, and the Darwen Heritage Centre.
Anthony Furnell, Head of Retail Operations for NP Group, which runs a chain of Nisa stores across the North West, said: “Partnering with MADL gives us the incredible opportunity to support our local communities. Through projects like the Number 1 Coffee Shop friendship group, we’ve seen isolated individuals, including those navigating an early-onset dementia diagnosis, find a vital lifeline and a community that feels like family. MADL truly changes lives where it matters most.”
Kate Carroll, Social Value Lead at Co-op Wholesale, said: “Reaching £20 million is an incredible milestone and one that reflects the commitment and community spirit of our retailers and their customers across the UK. We’re immensely proud of what has been achieved together.
“For more than 18 years, Making A Difference Locally has enabled Co-op Wholesale partner stores to support the causes that matter most to their local communities, whether that’s funding youth activities, helping improve mental wellbeing services or supporting a local food bank.
“In the current climate, the importance of supporting small charities and community causes is greater than ever. We remain committed to working with our partners to continue making a positive impact and building towards our next fundraising milestone.”
