Partnering with Pennies
Since 2023, Booths has partnered with Pennies to raise funds through micro-donations for various local and national charities, including BAGS for Strife to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by suicide. Thanks to the generosity of Booths’ customers, over £28,000 has been raised to support BAGS for Strife, a charity dedicated to providing emotional and practical support to people who have lost loved ones to suicide. This partnership has not only helped generate significant funds but has also increased awareness of the vital work BAGS for Strife does, ensuring that more people receive the help they need during the darkest times.
The Story of BAGS for Strife
BAGS for Strife was set up by people who have lost loved ones to suicide. The CEO of the charity tragically lost her daughter to suicide in 2019 and her husband to suicide in 2020. She reached out to all those who had loved and cared for them – both family and friends – and asked them what the overriding emotions they felt when they learned of their death. Four emotions consistently emerged: Blame, Anger, Guilt, and Sadness—BAGS.
Realising that her experience was not unique and struck by the lack of accessible support for those grieving suicide, she joined forces with others who had experienced similar losses. Together, they created BAGS for Strife to fill the gap in support, offering practical guidance and emotional solace to those navigating the complex journey of suicide bereavement. The charity is run by people who have themselves been touched by suicide, bringing a unique and deeply empathetic perspective to the support they provide.
At Bags For Strife, we believe in the power of community and the impact of small acts of kindness. Partnering with Booths supermarket and Pennies micro donations allows us to amplify our mission of supporting those in need. Together, we can transform everyday transactions into meaningful contributions, making a real difference in the lives of countless individuals. We feel proud to be continuing our journey with Booths and Pennies for another year.
Angela Allen, CEO of Bags For Strife.
What’s in the Bag?
BAGS for Strife provides specially curated bags filled with items designed to support individuals in the immediate aftermath of loss, as well as in the longer term. The contents of each bag are tailored to meet both practical and emotional needs, helping recipients navigate their grief.
Just under four hours of micro-donations made by Booths customers could fund a bag of help from BAGS for Strife and support helping recipients navigate their grief.
Inside the bag, you’ll find:
- A Water Bottle: A reminder to stay hydrated, even when self-care feels impossible.
- Tissues: For the many tears that may come.
- Chocolate and Teabags: Simple comforts during difficult times.
- Hand Cream and Lip Salve: To encourage small acts of self-care.
- The After Journal and Pen: A space to process thoughts and emotions.
- The Little Book of Help: Personal stories from those who have walked the same path, offering comfort and connection.
- A Tactile Item (Anger Ball): To help manage intense emotions.
- Sleep Spray and a Candle: Tools to create a moment of calm, providing a small glimmer of light in the darkness.
Each item has been thoughtfully chosen based on the experiences of those who have lived through the loss of a loved one to suicide. The bags are more than just physical items; they are a lifeline, offering tangible support and a reminder that those grieving are not alone.
You can request a Bag of Help here.
The Impact
Through Booths partnership with Pennies, micro-donations collected from their customers have made a significant difference. This generosity has enabled BAGS for Strife to extend its reach and provide even more bags and support to those in need. The funds raised have not only helped sustain the charity’s operations but have also allowed for the continued creation and distribution of these essential bags. Through this partnership, countless individuals have received the support they desperately need, helping them navigate their grief with a little more hope and a lot more care.
How you can benefit from Pennies
Contact us today and become part of the Pennies family, where every micro-donation adds up to make a positive difference for charities across the UK and beyond. Let’s work together to make every penny count!
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