Our Kilkeel store's community champion Stephanie Rodgers works closely with lots of local charities, groups and good causes – here she is presenting two donations worth a total of £1,690 from the Asda Foundation.
Kilkeel Community Association, a voluntary organisation which was established 25 years ago to support older people in the Mournes and the surrounding areas, received a £200 donation after finishing as runners up in the store's latest Green Token Giving customer vote – a total topped up with an additional surprise donation of £990 from the Asda Foundation.
Bernie Sands, co-ordinator at Kilkeel Community Association, said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to Asda Kilkeel and Stephanie for this generous donation. We knew we were receiving the £200 Green Token giving cheque, but the surprise donation was just wonderful!
“As a direct result of the combined donation we will be able to purchase much-needed new amenities for the centre including a new cooker, kettle and hoover. The cooker will help us continue to provide lunches for residents, giving them an opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked meal and socialise with friends – as many of our members live alone.
"At a time where it has proven difficult to access funding, this welcome boost from the Asda Foundation is vital in helping to break the cycle of isolation and loneliness amongst older people within our community.”
Stephenie also presented a cheque for £500 to The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (TKBRT) after they came first in the store's green token vote.
Asda Kilkeel customer Mary Rooney nominated the charity to take part in the scheme. She said: “After my daughter passed away suddenly in Australia, TKBRT stepped in and helped us to bring her home to Kilkeel. They are such an incredible organisation with a special place in my heart.
“I am so grateful to the Asda Foundation for this generous donation which will allow TKBRT to reach more people who need their help – the support that they offer to families in such a difficult time really is amazing.”
TKBRT is a registered charity which was established in 2013 to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the bodies of loved ones who have died abroad. Stephanie presented a cheque for £500 to the organisation from the Asda Foundation.
Stephanie said: “An important part of my role as an Asda community champion is being out in the community – and I am privileged to be able to support such a wide range of organisations.
"Both the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and Kilkeel Community Association make a real difference in the lives of the local people! I’m so proud my role as an Asda Community Champion – alongside the support of the Asda Foundation – enables me to play a significant role in furthering the amazing work they do!”