Have a Heart, Give Smart
People in Neath Port Talbot can now support street vulnerable people and rough sleepers in the county borough by donating to an official scheme.
The Neath Port Talbot ‘Have a Heart, Give Smart’ scheme was launched on Friday 21 September 2018. It provides an alternative to giving money directly to people who are begging on the street. In addition, people donating to the scheme will be giving double the help as Santander will be match funding any money collected.
Giving money to people who are begging can actually discourage them from seeking the professional help they really need.
The diverted giving scheme works by asking people to donate to local homeless charities via official collection boxes, instead of giving money directly to people who are begging on the streets. All of the donated money will go where it can most effectively be used to provide help to people in the area. This help might come from statutory, voluntary, faith-based, business and other community groups who help people overcome the addictions and other problems that lead to begging.
The Have a Heart – Give Smart campaign will ensure that any funds collected are put to legitimate use to provide direct support to those in genuine need.
Almost 30 businesses around the county borough have already agreed to support the scheme by acting as donation points.
The scheme works by providing funds to local voluntary and third sector organisations who can apply for grants to support homeless and vulnerable people.
This county-wide scheme will also play an important role in supporting our Neath Together Campaign, which is making progress in providing homeless people with access to services they need.
Donation Points
Please support this vital work by not giving money directly to people begging on the streets.