Clothing firm kits out Swindon homeless charity workers for all weathers

Workers for Swindon homeless charity Threshold have been outfitted by national outdoor clothing retailer TOG24.

TOG24 Area Supervisor Donna Emms said: "It has been a great pleasure to outfit Threshold’s Outreach Team with TOG24 protective clothing. 

"Since working with Michael Keenan, Chief Development Officer of Threshold, last year on our ‘Swap A Coat’ campaign, and seeing all the hard work which the Threshold team have put in over winter and again during lockdown, it’s the least we could do to keep the team warm, dry and comfortable when out during all weather, extreme and temperate.

“TOG24 and Threshold have formed a great working relationship and it’s fantastic that TOG24 will again this year be running the ‘Swap A Coat’ campaign across all our national stores to help local homeless charities. 

"We have outfitted Threshold’s Street Outreach Team with 3in1 waterproof jackets, waterproof trousers and cosy warm socks."

Michael Keenan, Threshold’s Chief Development Officer, said “Last year, the Swindon TOG24 store at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet led a successful national ‘Swap A Coat’ campaign. We’re very glad to see it return this year. 

"Threshold Housing Link are very pleased to partner again with TOG24 with their wonderful 'Swap A Coat' campaign 2020. From now until the 25 October customers can bring their pre-loved coat in store and receive 15 percent off on a brand new coat. 

"TOG24 will donate your pre-loved coat to Threshold and we will ensure it's given to someone in need this winter. It's a win-win for everyone!

“As the weather becomes colder and wetter the demand on the critical human services our charity provides to rough sleepers simply increases a great deal. Warm clothing is essential for those who are homeless and sleeping rough. 

"Swap a Coat will not just help those in desperate need within Swindon, but others around the country via the nominated leading homeless charities across the entire UK. 

 

"The campaign will run until the 25th October and I hope it will be well supported." 

A Threshold Street Outreach Team member, Marie, said: “Our work takes us into all kinds of terrains and territories. It was 4C this morning and as we move into the colder winter weather we are now equipped with some tremendous protective kit. 

"Undertaking our Street Outreach duties, we certainly cover quite some mileage and I’ve really put the kit through its paces. After hours in the pouring rain when out in the field I’ve returned back to base and taken the kit off and my clothes underneath have been totally dry. 

"The inner jacket allows air to circulate - it’s breathable and so you’re comfortable. The kit allows you to stay warm and dry and stay out in all weathers longer when others are running for cover. The gear is top notch, it’s all entirely waterproof and performs exceptionally well; the external jacket is lined with an inner jacket which makes it incredibly warm when we’re out on manoeuvres."

Roxy, another Outreach Team member, said “It’s very well made and you can feel the quality, and their range includes a style to suit all body shapes."