It was announced today that over 110 BT employees will take over nine Irish Cancer Society charity shops in Dublin, Galway and Cork as part of BT Shop for Change on October 13.
The staff will be using their time and talents to fill the shops with high-quality stock, attract customers and raise crucial funds for cancer research and care.
Simultaneously, BT colleagues in Northern Ireland will take over Marie Curie shops as part of the all-island campaign, which has raised in excess of €300,000 for Irish Cancer Society and Marie Curie NI over the last five years.
The money raised will help the Society fund innovative cancer research projects and provide support for patients and their families. Just €60 provides one-to-one consultations for three people affected by cancer on the Society’s Freephone Cancer Nurseline, 1800 200 700, while €350 covers the cost of one night of Night Nursing for a seriously ill cancer patient, allowing them to be cared for in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by loved ones.
New research reveals that 49% of people surveyed in Ireland wear just half of the clothes in their wardrobe on a regular basis, 28% wear just a quarter regularly, while 25% have six or more items in their wardrobe that they have never worn once, according to a survey commissioned by communications company BT Ireland to launch BT Shop for Change in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.
However, in today’s circular economy, the survey revealed that the nation still loves the catharsis of a good clear-out. Sixty per cent of Irish de-clutter at least twice a year, while 89% claim a clear-out makes them feel either good or brilliant. Charity shops are benefiting, with 80% of people donating their unwanted items to charity.
However, only 8% shop once per month or more in charity shops, with clothes and books the most popular items to purchase.
Director of Sales of BT Ireland, Mark Hopkins said, "We are proud to launch BT Shop for Change for the fifth year, and to give our employees and their local communities the opportunity to contribute to the vital work of the Irish Cancer Society."
She added, "One in three people in Ireland will develop cancer in their lifetime. By donating your preloved clothes and accessories, and picking up a bargain at your local store on October 13, you can help us deliver real change for local people suffering from cancer."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
