East of England Co-op introduces new self-checkout donation button to boost funds for local communities

The East of England Co-op has introduced a new button on their self-checkouts which allows shoppers to donate money straight to their local communities via the East of England Co-op's community programmes. 

The new ‘Supporting our communities’ button, made possible by the regional retailer's recent self-checkout replacement project, allows members and customers to donate an amount of their choice to the store’s chosen Local Giving charity (available from 1 June to 31 August and from 1 November to 31 January). Outside of these months, any donations will go towards the East of England Co-op's Community Cares Fund. 

Each year, the East of England Co-op invests a contribution of its profits through its Community Cares Fund to support local charities and community initiatives across the region that address ‘community cohesion and integration’. 

East of England Co-op's Local Giving campaign gives colleagues across almost 200 East of England Co-op stores and branches a chance to choose a local charity, twice a year, that's important to their local community. They then spend three months at a time supporting their selected charities through awareness raising and fundraising activities. All money raised goes directly to their chosen charities, alongside a £150 donation directly from the retailer. 

Angela Carpenter, Community Support Lead for the East of England Co-op said: “We know how much our Local Giving charities and our Community Cares Fund grant recipients rely on the generosity of local people. 

“By adding a simple way to donate at our self-checkouts, we’re giving our members and customers more choice and more opportunities to make a real difference in their communities.” 

“With Christmas just around the corner, we’re encouraging members and customers to visit their local store and support the charity chosen by their local co-op. Even the smallest donation can help make the festive season brighter for local people and the organisations working hard to support them. It’s a simple way to spread a little kindness at a time of year when it matters most.” 

You can pop into your local East of England Co-op Food store, Forecourt, Travel branch or Funeral Services branch to see which local charity they'll be supporting this winter (1 November – 31 January). You can also check online here. Stores will have collection pots and the option to donate at the till. They will also be taking part in a range of fundraising activities such as fancy dress, tombolas and second-hand book sales.