Semifinalist:
Andi Kelly
Andi Kelly Hair Studio
544 Lanark Road
Edinburgh
Scotland

Story:
After the Christmas rush in 2019, I went home to get ready for a night out and thought what a load of rubbish I have in my wardrobe. I encouraged my clients to have a look to do the same! I used my salon as a drop off point for clothes, soft toys, blankets and towels for the homeless. I specifically wanted these clothes to be given to people who didn’t have anything else to keep cosy with in the cold, winter months. Together, with my clients, family and friends, we managed to donate 13 full bin bags of clothing to a charity that directly clothed the homeless.

Around the time of my birthday last year, post lockdown, I realised that there is nothing I actually want or need to be gifted! I decided I would put my business social media platforms to good use again and start a fundraiser. With the help of so many people who donated raffle prizes, bought a raffle ticket and supported the cause and me, a grand total of £850.50 was raised! The money was donated equally to Abused Men In Scotland and Womens Aid. These are domestic abuse charities that help do amazing things for victims. Lockdown seen domestic abuse cases rise to an all time high so we wanted to do anything we could to help! I hosted a bake sale too, so the fact people got to eat cake and help at the same time is a plus!

I didn’t want clients to feel obliged to buy a £5 ticket for my raffle. I also wanted to help more people closer to home. I used the salon as a drop off point again, but this time, for food! The food bank which is directly over the road from my house was running low due to lockdown and high demand. I encouraged my clients to drop off anything they could spare in their cupboards, tins, dry foods, etc. The food bank also accept toiletries and sanitary products. We managed to donate 14 full carrier bags to our local food bank! I continued to collect for the food bank after this.

Timing:
I like to give to something if my attention is brought to it, I always do research into what I am fundraising for too. I do enjoy giving to other people anyway, especially those in need. I am always looking to do more and this will definitely be part of my business- continuing to raise money for charity. I think it is a great way to use my platform. I chose to give the clothes to the homeless in the winter months for obvious reasons. Around my birthday, I always feel generous as there is nothing I want for, and somebody else would benefit much more from.