Nisa’s charity, Making a Difference Locally (MADL), has cemented its role as a cornerstone of community support across the UK in 2024, achieving incredible milestones and touching the lives of over 360,000 people.
Last year, MADL donated over £1 million, spread across 1,340 individual donations, to small charities and community groups nationwide. These contributions bolstered food pantries, enhanced opportunities for children, strengthened community bonds, and provided much-needed winter support.
Through these initiatives, MADL has made a tangible and lasting impact on countless lives, earning the charity the coveted Outstanding Achievement Award at the Retail Industry Awards.
In addition to MADL’s direct contributions, Nisa colleagues rallied behind charitable causes, showcasing their dedication to making a difference. Highlights include raising almost £3,000 for Barnardo’s, wrapping 260 presents for the KIXX Christmas appeal to bring festive cheer to local children, and supporting Scunthorpe Foodbank’s Christmas efforts by organising 170 gift hampers and donating pre-loved toys.
Heart of the Community Award funds were awarded to retailers championing critical causes such as food pantries, initiatives for brighter futures for children, and stronger, more resilient communities.
Notable achievements include raising £35,585 through 68 clothing banks, with items donated to Middle Eastern and Ukrainian communities in a partnership between a clothing bank supplier and Oxfam, and £28,673 from in-store collection tins.
Retailers across the country also celebrated significant MADL milestones. Dike & Sons and LA Foods raised an extraordinary £100,000, while The Proudfoot Group surpassed a £200,000 milestone, highlighting the collective impact of community-driven fundraising.
2024 also saw the launch of MADL’s inaugural “Pink Friday” day, a celebration of community spirit and philanthropy. This initiative contributed to MADL’s growing legacy, which has now raised over £18 million for communities since its inception.
Reflecting on these achievements, Kate Carroll, head of charity at Nisa, said: “Our incredible retailers and colleagues have shown unparalleled dedication and generosity this year. Their efforts have created meaningful change in communities across the UK, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together in 2024. Here’s to an even brighter and more impactful 2025!”
Adding to last year’s accolades, MADL was also shortlisted in the Community Engagement Programme of the Year category at the 2024 People in Retail Awards.
From supporting local foodbanks to spearheading national initiatives, MADL has proven its unwavering dedication to strengthening UK communities. As the charity looks ahead to 2025, it continues to build on its remarkable achievements, ensuring no community is left behind.
