Shoppers at Tesco Thornton Heath have helped raise over £174k for Croydon community projects, according to new figures released by the superstore.

Their Bags of Help scheme, run in partnership with national organisation Groundworks, donates to multiple charities in the local area.

The initiative was started in 2016, when Tesco replaced single use carrier bags with recyclable “bags for life”. The money raised by the sale of these bags now funds Bags of Help.

Tesco also counted 171,891 meals of leftover food, which they redistributed throughout the community.

Harvey Chatwal, Manager at Tesco’s Thornton Heath, is pleased with his store’s total.

“All the colleagues across our store, are so proud to be able to support the community directly in this way."

“The figures are excellent to see, and it shows the what impact five years of hard work and an ‘Every Little Helps’ mentality can have on a community like ours in Croydon. We hope to continue helping people in the local community for many years to come.”

So far, the money raised has gone towards funding a disabled children’s theatre programme, a school holiday scheme, and a homeless project.

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Chartwell Cancer Trust has also benefitted from the scheme.

Michael Douglas, a spokesperson for the charity, said the grant will allow its Childhood Cancer Support network to continue.

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“During this uncertain and traumatic time for oncology patients and families, support and relief are needed more than ever.”

“In addition to the support network, the money will help provide games, toys and activities to enhance the well-being of these highly vulnerable children through these worrisome times."

“Thanks to Tesco for helping to spread joy and put smiles on to the faces of children battling cancer.”

Local groups can apply for Bags of Help funding here.