Grace Cares celebrates second birthday with bold vision for the future

Grace Cares, Lichfield's innovative care equipment recycling charity, marked its second anniversary by revealing impressive milestones and exciting new initiatives.

Having supported over 1,500 people while saving more than 1,000 pieces of vital care equipment from landfill, the charity is embarking on its next chapter.

The anniversary celebrations culminated in a sell-out community quiz night at the Guildhall, hosted by Pineapple Quizzes.

The event brought together service users, local business owners, residents, and civic dignitaries including the mayor and sheriff.

With funds raised, Grace Cares is implementing new racking solutions at its unit to increase storage capacity and equipment preservation capabilities.

This infrastructure upgrade will enable Grace Cares to rescue and redistribute even more essential care equipment to those in need.

The charity is also looking to create its first part-time position, focusing specifically on supporting unpaid carers.

“Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes keeping our health and social care system afloat,” says Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares.

“This new role will help us develop targeted resources and support networks for these vital community members.”

Grace Cares is also strengthening its academic partnerships, collaborating with Aston University and the University of Birmingham on work experience projects and competitions.

Their latest intergenerational initiative, ‘Pimp Our Ride’, invites students of all ages and abilities to submit artwork by 11 April for the chance to win £100 and have their design featured on the Grace Cares van.

The winning entry will be unveiled at this year's Lichfield Bower Procession in May.

“From volunteers giving their time to local residents sharing our message, every contribution has helped someone access essential care equipment, support and grants,” adds Emma Smith, co-founder at Grace Cares.

“These new developments will help us build on this foundation and create an even stronger support network for our community.”

For more information about Grace Cares or to get involved, visit their website or contact hello@grace-cares.com or 01543 730189.

Pictured: Grace Cares team members, from left - John Moore, Emma Smith, Pippa Moor, Carl Varney and Andrea Vinten