Nisa Local Borough Green in Kent has donated £500 to Action for BPAN, a charity dedicated to supporting families affected by the rare neurological condition Beta-propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration (BPAN).
The donation was made possible through Making a Difference Locally (MADL), the Co-op Wholesale’s charity initiative that enables independent retailers to support causes that matter to their communities. For Borough Green retailer Steve Weight, this cause struck a deeply personal chord.
After learning more about BPAN and the devastating challenges it poses to families, Steve felt compelled to act.
“When I heard about BPAN and the challenges families face, I knew I had to do something,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be able to support such an important cause, and I hope this donation helps bring more awareness and hope to those affected.”
The £500 donation will help fund vital research into BPAN and support awareness campaigns that give families hope and access to resources. One such family is that of Isabella, who visited Steve’s store to personally thank him for his support – making the donation all the more meaningful.
Kate Carroll, social values Lead at Co-op Wholesale, praised the initiative: “We’re incredibly proud of Steve stepping up to support Action for BPAN. This is a great example of how retailers and charity can make a real difference in local communities.”
Action for BPAN also expressed heartfelt thanks, calling Steve a “true BPAN Hero.” The charity posted:
“Steve, you are a true BPAN Hero and your compassion for others is inspiring. It was also extra special that Isabella got to meet Steve in person today to thank him herself. She was absolutely delighted to explore his store and have a little dance in the aisle!”
This donation adds to the impressive £21,000 contributed to date by Borough Green Stores to a variety of local causes through MADL including South East 4×4 Response, Streetwise Opera, and the Borough Green Parish Council.
Through MADL, independent retailers like Steve are helping to build stronger, more compassionate communities—one donation at a time.
