College bags more donations!

The College received a large donation of handbags from OPI (Odontorium Products Inc.) to the 2024 Love Grace Handbag Appeal. Belinda Price, an OPI employee, organised the collection at her workplace and brought the items in. This initiative is aimed at supporting women affected by domestic violence, an aspect close to the hearts of many in our community.

The Love Grace charity, founded in memory of Grace Millane, who was tragically murdered on the eve of her 22nd birthday, is spearheaded by Hannah O’Callaghan OBE and Gillian Millane OBE. Their mission is to empower victims of domestic abuse, and this collaboration enhances their efforts to reach more individuals in need.

Belinda Price said: “This initiative is particularly meaningful to us, as I had the privilege of meeting Grace’s mother and learning about her story. We run ‘Train the Trainer’ for my educators twice a year and we normally have a charity collection. This time Love Grace was on my mind because I met Grace’s mum a couple of years ago.

“I thought that this would be a really good way to donate, because as groups of ladies, we have too many handbags and toiletries. We also included some items from Wella and OPI as well.”

Nicola Thomson Dewey, Head of the Learning for Living and Work Department at the College, fervently leads the donation drive. She expressed her gratitude for the support received from Belinda and OPI: “We are appreciative of the continued support that we get for The Love Grace handbag appeal. The response has been heartwarming, and we are confident that these donations will make a significant difference in the lives of many women. Thank you to everyone at OPI and parent company Wella for your contributions.”

Belinda added: “I chose the College as a drop-off point as I’d seen a post that they are a collection point for Love Grace a while ago. So, I went online to confirm, and I got in touch.

“We have donated once before to the Love Grace charity, but I think I ended up posting it. This is so much easier as it is close to where I’m based.

“We hope we can donate again and continue bringing items that can be used and be of benefit.”

Donations can be dropped off at the College’s Crumbs Café, located on Church Street, Barnsley, S70 2YW, Monday to Friday between 8.00 am – 2.00 pm. For any queries regarding donations, call 01226 216 357.