In an inspiring act of community solidarity, Chestertons and Chase Buchanan estate agencies have come together to support London’s most vulnerable residents through the donation of thousands of winter coats.
This year marks the eleventh consecutive year that Chestertons has run its annual coat drive in partnership with Calling London, a charity dedicated to supporting those in need, including the homeless, families facing financial struggles, and refugees.
Frances Manthos, Founder of Calling London, expressed her gratitude for the combined efforts of Chestertons and Chase Buchanan.
“Thanks to the invaluable support of Chestertons as well as Chase Buchanan, I was ultimately able to help more people than ever before,” she said. “The energy from the teams came in many forms—from managing the collection boxes in the branches, to reaching out to local communities, to collecting coats near their homes, and volunteering their time at the coat sorting.”
Since 2013, Chestertons has been helping vulnerable Londoners keep warm through the colder months.
They transform their High Street branches into collection points for coats, the estate agency has mobilised clients, local schools, businesses, and community groups to donate.
Over the years, Chestertons has helped to provide over 50,000 coats, making a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling.
This year, for the first time, fellow estate agency Chase Buchanan joined the cause.
The partnership marked a milestone as both agencies collected an incredible number of coats for those in need.
After a successful four-week coat drive that ended on 23rd November, the agencies proudly announced that they had surpassed the target of 10,000 donations, with contributions coming in from all corners of London.
The coats collected have been distributed to a number of local charities, including Smart Works and Hammersmith and Fulham Foodbank, both of which have expressed their heartfelt thanks for the support.
Victoria Gorelik from Smart Works, which provides professional clothing and interview coaching to women in need, said: “The coats we received will be the perfect finishing touch to ensure our clients leave their appointments 100% prepared for their upcoming job interview. We are incredibly grateful to be part of such an amazing scheme which brings Londoners together to lift up those in need in their communities.”
Selina Patel from Hammersmith and Fulham Foodbank also spoke about the meaningful impact of the donations. “When people are struggling to feed themselves, it’s hard to think about anything that isn’t necessary for survival. Giving coats to people feels like a lovely treat for them. They can choose their favourite colour or style, and the ability to empower people in that way is absolutely wonderful.”
As the winter months approach, Chestertons and Chase Buchanan’s support for Calling London will continue to provide a lifeline to those who need it most.
This remarkable partnership proves that small actions, when combined, can lead to big changes in the lives of those who need support the most.