Arden Group donates IT equipment to homelessness charity

Posted on: Monday, February 22nd, 2021

The Arden Group has pledged to support the homeless community in Greater Manchester by donating our old laptops and tablets.

We’ve just made our first donation to the Mustard Tree – a poverty and homelessness charity which supports people experiencing homelessness to get their lives back on track.

The charity runs a series of creative classes and activities for the homeless community, but has had to switch its timetable to online classes during the pandemic. As a result, the charity has been appealing for laptops, smartphones and tablets to enable people to take part and access the remote-learning activities.

We heard about the Mustard Tree appeal through our work with the Business in the Community group and its National Business Response Network, which identifies national and local community needs and connects business resources to meet them.

Sarah Poynter, Operations Manager at Arden Engraving, said; “We normally recycle our old computers and IT equipment, but amid the national appeal for laptops to help pupils with their home learning, we were inspired to put our old equipment to better use and find a local worthy cause to support.

“When we heard about the work of The Mustard Tree and the challenges they’ve been facing to continue their activities during the pandemic, we were happy to lend our support. By donating our old computer equipment, not only is it being recycled and re-used, but it’s also directly benefiting people in our community who need it most.

“The Mustard Tree is a fantastic charity that’s making a real difference for the homeless community in Greater Manchester and we hope our donation of technology, both now and in the future, will help them continue the wonderful work they do.”

Harry Dwan, Activities and Volunteering Coordinator at the Mustard Tree, added: “Mustard Tree are incredibly grateful to the Arden Group for their support. Their donation of laptops and tablets will help the Greater Manchester community stay connected, contributing and able to access online classes, clubs and activities.

“The Arden Group has helped Mustard Tree provide a platform for people, giving clients the tools to help themselves at a time where many are struggling to access online opportunities.”

The Mustard Tree is based in Ancoats and supports the homeless community with practical support, friendship, connections into work and access to health and wellbeing services. It also runs a series of community shops across the region offering access to low-cost food, clothing and household essentials for people experiencing homelessness and poverty.