Staff in Leeds donate to help homeless communities across UK

The two companies will be asking workers at its branches across the UK to donate preloved warm clothing, as well as sleeping bags, blankets, toiletries and bags as part of the Pass It on 2018 initiative.

The donation will then be distributed among homeless and vulnerable people to help provide some warmth this winter. The scheme was founded by Smith News CEO Jonathan Bunting and, following two successful Christmas campaigns, Pass It On became a year-round initiative in 2017. It has since raised more than £7,000.

Mr Bunting said: “Finding yourself on the streets can be devastating, but the truth is it can happen to anyone - and it can be very isolating. That’s why campaigns like Pass It On are so important; it’s not just providing a hot drink or a warm jacket, but taking the time to interact and have a chat. It really makes a difference.”

As well as donations from colleagues, the campaign is being supported by a number of sponsors and homeless charities.

In just two years Pass It On has distributed 11,000 warm items across 16 major cities.

The initiative will soon hit the streets for its third campaign, this time in January.

Mr Bunting added: “This month it was revealed that 440 people have died on the streets in the last year, with January being the worst month.

“If our support can help save just one life, then it’s definitely worth it.”

To get involved in the campaign, visit the Smiths News or Tuffnells social media pages.