The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) is initiating its second back-to-school campaign to ease financial strain on industry families.
- FTCT’s campaign focuses on providing children with essential school needs like uniforms and technology in response to a cost of living crisis.
- A significant portion, 75%, of surveyed parents report intense stress due to school-related expenses.
- The fundraiser aims to gather £5,000 to supply full uniforms for 25 children this July.
- FTCT invites the fashion and textile community to collectively support families facing economic challenges.
The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) is reintroducing its back-to-school fundraising effort to assist families associated with the fashion and textile sectors. As the new school year looms, the charity’s campaign aims to reduce financial burdens by covering essential educational supplies.
The campaign, originally launched in June 2023, seeks donations to fund school uniforms, study-related furniture, and necessary technology like laptops and tablets. This initiative comes amidst a growing cost of living crisis, significantly affecting families within the industry.
A recent survey conducted among 54 parents who have benefited from FTCT grants revealed that a substantial 75% of respondents are experiencing extreme stress due to back-to-school expenses. Furthermore, 70% admitted that setting aside funds specifically for educational purposes is largely unfeasible under the current economic pressures.
The 2024 fundraiser is set to run from July 1 to July 31, with the goal of collecting £5,000. This target is intended to cover the uniform costs for 25 children, emphasizing the charity’s commitment to ensuring no child is disadvantaged at school due to financial constraints.
Anna Pangbourne, CEO of FTCT, stated, “Through the campaign, we want to reflect the lived experiences of the families who approach us for support. We can’t ignore the harsh reality that children right across the UK are being left behind at school due to economic challenges – this includes the children of colleagues within the fashion and textile sector.”
The inaugural edition of FTCT’s campaign aimed to raise £10,000 and saw the involvement of the streetwear brand Just Hype, which donated 100 backpacks. This year’s efforts continue to build on previous successes, underlining the importance of communal action in supporting vulnerable families.
FTCT, celebrating its 170-year legacy since its establishment in 1853, annually provides over £400,000 in grants. The organization’s consistent record is highlighted by notable fundraising achievements, including raising £8,300 at the Drapers Awards 2023 and £2,800 at the Drapers Sustainable Fashion Awards 2024.
This campaign underscores FTCT’s ongoing commitment to support fashion and textile industry families through challenging economic times.
