21 Together was delighted to officially celebrate the opening of its new charity shop in Maidstone Mall on Friday 30 October, with Helen Grant MP joining us to carry out the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2.30pm.
Although the shop had already been welcoming shoppers for the past couple of weeks, Friday marked the occasion to officially open our doors and celebrate this exciting new chapter for the charity.
We were pleased to welcome Helen Grant MP, alongside 21 Together's Julie Stitchbury, Jo Stratford, our CEO Kevan Hodges and trustee Melissa Jones, for the special occasion.
Following conversations with Julie and Jo about the work of 21 Together, Helen shared some very kind words about the charity and the support it provides to children and young adults with Down's syndrome and their families across Kent.
Helen then said a few words before proudly declaring the shop officially open and cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Shoppers visiting the mall at the time were also able to join in the celebrations, with cupcakes and chocolates handed out to mark the special day.
A shop that makes a difference
Our new charity shop is more than just a place to find a bargain. Every purchase helps support the work of 21 Together and the children, young people and families we work alongside.
Whether you're looking for something special, picking up an everyday essential or simply browsing, every visit and purchase makes a difference.
We would love to see more members of the Maidstone community popping in, discovering what we have to offer and supporting the charity.
We are incredibly grateful to Helen Grant MP for joining us and carrying out the official opening ceremony. We look forward to keeping in touch and hopefully welcoming Helen back to future events, including our World Down Syndrome Day celebrations next spring.
Come and visit us!
Our charity shop is now open in Maidstone Mall, and we'd love you to come and see us!
You can find us in Unit 360, by the escalators.
Opening hours:
Monday–Friday: 9.30am–3pm
Saturday: 9.30am–3.30pm
We also welcome good-quality donations of clothing, toys, homeware and other items to help keep our shelves stocked.
Every donation, purchase and visit helps us continue our work supporting the Down syndrome community across Kent.
We hope to see you soon!