Stagecoach Manchester has once again launched a fundraising initiative for its charity partner Forever Manchester.
It will see bus drivers dressed as Father Christmas in order to encourage donations from passengers on their buses.
Forever Manchester works to fund community activity across the Greater Manchester region and aims to help support over 1,000 community projects with funds raised by the operator this Christmas.
The drivers will also be handing out gift vouchers to random passengers ahead of Christmas Day. Christmas jumpers will be worn from 1-24 December to collect even more donations.
“As our designated charity partner, we’re thrilled to support Forever Manchester during Christmas, a time that can be difficult for so many,” says Lee Wasnidge, Stagecoach Manchester Managing Director. “This a great opportunity to help communities across the region, and make a real difference. Offering customers a treat in this fun and festive way, as the vouchers are a great way to brighten up their day, and to say thank you for riding with us this year.”
Jean Hampson, Philanthropy Development Manager at Forever Manchester, adds: “Everyone at Forever Manchester would like to say a massive thank you to the team at Stagecoach and its passengers for their Christmas fundraising efforts.
“We’d especially like to say thanks to the drivers who’ll be putting smiles on people’s faces while helping raise much needed funds to support community activity across the city and beyond.”
Stagecoach Manchester staff have been encouraged to participate in fundraising efforts for the charity partner since 2016. Most recently nine Stagecoach Manchester employees – including Managing Director Lee – raised over £3,300 for the charity through participation in the 10km Great Manchester Run.
