FROM rags to riches … donations of clothes have helped Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
National Highways asked its staff and firms it works with to have a clearout of their wardrobes, in a bid to help the service, and two others.
In all, they collected 100 bags, with the contents upcycled to charity shops, or recycled to be used again.
The south east funds were shared by Thames Valley and two other air ambulance services: Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS), and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Charity.
Across the country more than 950 bags were collected for 11 air ambulance charities.
National Highways regional customer service programme manager Sarah Ashworth said: “We are really pleased to help the air ambulance charities in this way because of the vital work they do to save lives.
“Many of our frontline staff, including our supply chain colleagues, see the difference they make at very close quarters and value them immensely.
“The amount of items that have been donated over recent weeks is testament to that and it’s been great to see everyone come together for this amazing cause.”
Andy Holland, director of fundraising for Thames Valley Air Ambulance, was grateful for the backing from National Highways.
“Having a clothing clear-out is a great way to support our lifesaving cause, while making some space in your wardrobe for summer. Donated clothes, shoes, and textiles have earned us over £1,000,000 so far and this initiative from National Highways will give us a further boost.
“As a charity, we are funded solely by the generosity of the public. Corporate partners, like National Highways and their supply chain, play a vital role in helping us to protect, save, and revive lives across our community.
“On behalf of our crew, and our patients, we want to say a big thank you.”
Members of the supply chain who took part in the initiative were Associated Asphalt, Jacobs, Kier, Littlewood Fencing, Roadways, WJ South and Balfour Beatty M25 J10 project.
